Apache (Gangsta B*tch) RIP

Rapper Apache, born Anthony Teaks, passed away today after battling an undisclosed illness. As an original member of Queen Latifah's Flavor Unit, Apache first appeared on 45 King Presents The Flavor Unit and his best known single “Gangsta B**ch”, produced by ATCQ, peaked at #11 on Billboard's Hot Rap Singles chart. The Apache rapper had just 1 album to his credit, 1992's "Apache Ain't S-" which went as high as #66 on the US charts.  Apache made guest rap appearances on albums by 2PAC, Naughty by Nature, A Tribe Called Quest and Fat Joe.

"Without Apache there would have been no Queen Latifah, no Naughty By Nature, no Chill Rob G., no anything" said Shakim Compere, co-founder of Flavor Unit Records. "Apache was the string that tied all of Flavor Unit together. Without Apache none of this would be."

People in the industry have taken to tweeting as a means to send condolences.

"Life is fragile... Apache was STRONG! R.I.P." & "R.I.P. To my brotha APACHE.. Together we made a dope lil hiphop joint... He was a real stand up dude..." via @QtipTheAbstract

“That’s my g, r.i.p in peace big homie, you will be missed, shout out to his family naughty by nature, I just did a show with them, god bless.” via @KidCapri101