Chris Kelly: A Hip-Hop Legacy and Untimely Passing

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Chris Kelly is remembered as one half of the iconic rap duo Kris Kross, best known for their hit single “Jump,” which topped the charts in 1992.

Who Was Chris Kelly?

Chris “Mac Daddy” Kelly, alongside his friend Chris Smith, rose to fame as the rap duo Kris Kross. Discovered in 1990, the pair quickly gained popularity for their catchy tunes and unique style, famously wearing their clothes backward. Sadly, Kelly’s life was cut short on May 1, 2013, in Atlanta at the age of 34, with the suspected cause of death being a drug overdose.

Early Life and Discovery

Born on August 11, 1978, in Atlanta, Georgia, Chris Kelly’s journey into music began when producer Jermaine Dupri discovered him and Smith at Atlanta’s Greenbriar Mall. Despite being just a teenager himself, Dupri recognized their potential and helped them create a demo tape. This led to their signing with Ruffhouse Records, setting the stage for their future success.

Kris Kross: Breakthrough and Popularity

Kris Kross skyrocketed to fame with their debut single “Jump,” which became a massive hit. Written and produced by Jermaine Dupri, the song dominated the Billboard Hot 100 chart for eight consecutive weeks in 1992. Their album, Totally Krossed Out, also achieved multiplatinum status, propelling them into the spotlight. The duo’s influence extended beyond music, as fans emulated their distinctive fashion of wearing clothes backward.

Following “Jump,” Kris Kross continued to release popular tracks like “Warm It Up” and ventured into other media, including a video game called Kris Kross: Make My Video and the “Rugrats Rap” for Nickelodeon’s Rugrats. However, as they matured, Kelly and Smith attempted to adopt a tougher image in their music. Despite releasing two more albums, they couldn’t replicate the monumental success of their debut single. The group eventually disbanded after their 1996 album Young, Rich and Dangerous.

Life After Kris Kross

After Kris Kross, Chris Kelly stayed connected to the music industry. He pursued education to become a studio engineer, reflecting his continued passion for music. In 2009, Kelly faced rumors about his health when photos emerged showing him with bald spots. He later clarified that he was suffering from alopecia, not cancer.

Kris Kross briefly reunited in February 2013 to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Jermaine Dupri’s label, So So Def, marking a nostalgic moment for fans.

Death and Legacy

Tragically, Chris Kelly was found unresponsive in his Atlanta home on May 1, 2013. He was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead at the age of 34. The suspected cause of death was a drug overdose. Following his passing, there was an outpouring of grief and tributes from fans, family, and the music community. Jermaine Dupri expressed his deep sorrow, likening Kelly to a son, while rapper LL Cool J dedicated his song “Jump On It” to him. Fans also paid homage to Kelly by wearing their clothes backward, in a nod to the distinctive style Kris Kross popularized.

Quick Facts

  • Name: Chris Kelly
  • Birth Year: 1978
  • Birth Date: August 11, 1978
  • Birth State: Georgia
  • Birth City: Atlanta
  • Birth Country: United States
  • Gender: Male
  • Best Known For: Co-founder of the rap duo Kris Kross, famous for the hit song “Jump.”
  • Astrological Sign: Leo
  • Death Year: 2013
  • Death Date: May 1, 2013
  • Death State: Georgia
  • Death City: Atlanta
  • Death Country: United States

Chris Kelly’s impact on the music industry, especially in the early ’90s, remains significant. His contribution to hip-hop and pop culture continues to be celebrated by fans worldwide.