Prodigy, one-half of the popular New York City hip-hop team Mobb Deep, died today at the age of 42.

“It is with extreme sadness and disbelief that we confirm the death of our dear friend Albert Johnson, better known to millions of fans as Prodigy of legendary NY rap duo Mobb Deep,” the rapper’s publicist said in a statement. “Prodigy was hospitalized a few days ago in Vegas after a Mobb Deep performance for complications caused by a sickle cell anemia crisis. As most of his fans know, Prodigy battled the disease since birth. The exact causes of death have yet to be determined. We would like to thank everyone for respecting the family’s privacy at this time.”

His longtime Mobb Deep partner Havoc took to Instagram to share a photo of the two as youngsters, with the simple caption, “FOREVER”.

Forever

A post shared by Havoc of Mobb Deep (@mobbdeephavoc) on

Prodigy, born Albert Johnson in New York, found success in the ’90s with fellow rapper Havoc in the group Mobb Deep. The duo’s hits included “Hey Luv (Anything),” “Quiet Storm” with Lil Kim, and “Shook Ones (Part II).” Although Mobb Deep was never a huge commercial success, the group’s sophomore album, 1995’s The Infamous, is considered one of the best of its time.