Hip-Hop Mogul Dead in Apparent Suicide

Hip-hop lost a huge figure today, even if he's not a household name. Manager Chris Lighty apparently shot himself at his Brooklyn apartment after an argument with his ex-wife, reports the Daily News. The 44-year-old had managed the likes of 50 Cent, Sean "Diddy" Combs, and Mariah Carey, though he was apparently in deep debt to the IRS, police sources tell the newspaper. Before starting his own company, Violator, he had worked with LL Cool J and other hip-hop pioneers.

The AP rounds up reaction from big names in the industry, including 50 Cent: "Chris has been an important part of my business and personal growth for a decade," he wrote in a statement. "He was a good friend and advisor who helped me develop as an artist and businessman." Fat Joe tweeted: "R.I.P. Chris Lighty. The man that saved my life!" As did Rihanna: "Rest peacefully Chris Lighty, my prayers go out to family and loved ones! Dear God please have mercy." (More Chris Lighty stories.)