Philadelphia rapper LGP QUA remembered for activism and music after reported death at 24
Philadelphia rapper LGP QUA, born Qidere Johnson, has reportedly died, according to NewsX. He was fatally shot in the city’s Juniata Park section on Sunday afternoon, according to WPVI Action News.
Although official confirmation from his family or authorities is still pending, the news has sparked widespread tributes from fans and fellow artists. The 24-year-old was known for his socially conscious freestyles and amassed a following of over 300,000 on Instagram.
Philly rapper Lgp Qua who went viral over the years for freestyling on the block about real life situations reportedly passed away today 💔😢 pic.twitter.com/6mWvx6RuIz
— SAY CHEESE! 👄🧀 (@SaycheeseDGTL) May 12, 2025
24 Year Old Philly Artist Lgp Qua Who went Viral for Freestyle talking about real life situations has sadly Passed away, he was shot & killed in his Hometown. RIP TO HIM 💔😢🕊️ pic.twitter.com/4b4LuoZUlP
Johnson rose to prominence with a 2017 freestyle supporting Meek Mill’s parole case and later collaborated with will.i.am on the 2018 track INSOMNIAC (woke). His difficult upbringing in North Philadelphia, where he was raised by his mother, deeply influenced his lyrical focus on social justice, gun violence, and systemic inequality. He described himself as the “Voice of the Youth,” a message reinforced through his visits to schools like Edward T. Steel Elementary and community-based tracks like Dear Qua, which featured letters from local teens.
His career began during an 18-month prison sentence in 2016, where he reconnected with his father and started writing music. Fans and artists, including Juicy J and Money Jake, have voiced grief and frustration, with some criticising the music industry for failing to support rising talent before tragedy occurs.
Johnson’s impact extended beyond music. He partnered with Puma and Foot Locker to donate over 1,000 sneakers to students across Philadelphia. The initiative earned him recognition from State Senator Sharif Street and Councilwoman Cindy Bass, affirming his dedication to uplifting his community.