Sean Paul pays tribute to Migos rapper Takeoff

The hip-hop community is not the only one mourning the death of Takeoff, as some of Jamaica's dancehall stars have reacted with shock to his murder.

The rapper, given name Kirshnik Khari Ball, was one-third of the platinum-selling group Migos. He was shot and killed early yesterday morning in Texas.

Reports are that Takeoff, 28, and fellow Migos member Quavo, 31, were at a private party being held at the 810 Billiards and Bowling alley in Houston when shots were fired near the entrance following an argument. It was also reported that two other persons were hospitalised with injuries.

Speaking to THE STAR, Grammy Award-winning entertainer Sean Paul described Takeoff as "humble and awesome". Sean Paul recorded the hit single Body with Migos more than five years ago, but he remembers the interaction with Takeoff like it was yesterday.

"I'm really saddened by news of his tragic demise. Each of them have different talents that makes Migos awesome. Takeoff was the youngest one and when I did the song with them, I didn't know that. I thought he was the oldest one because of his persona," he said. "Unlike what some people say about personalities in the hip-hop game, that will treat you messed up, he wasn't like that with me. He was quick to ask for a number and communicated well."

The Dynamite artiste and songwriter said that the hip-hop community benefitted from Takeoff's talent and opined that he had a lot more to give. The video for the collaboration garnered close to 40 million views on YouTube. Sean Paul also said that the way the rapper died serves as a reminder to everyone about how precious every moment is.

"It shows life is unpredictable. I mean from what I understand he didn't even see it coming, it was a stray shot. We need to give thanks for every step we are able to take. I send my condolences to his family, rest in peace Takeoff. I still can't believe it. He was really awesome and his voice was awesome and we rejoice for what he was able to do, but he was way too young," Sean Paul said.

Meanwhile, on social media, several members of the reggae-dancehall fraternity have shared condolence messages and expressed disbelief.

Unruly Entertainment boss Popcaan, who made a cameo appearance in the rap trio's video for the single Why Not last year, made a story post of an image which he had taken with Takeoff. "Fly high my bro, this not right, humblest human I know," the artiste said. He also sent best wishes to Quavo, "to stay up family, prayers up bro."

Artiste manager Sharon Burke commented under the last post on Takeoff's Instagram account: "Rest in peace, humble, humble," which many have alluded to be Takeoff's most outstanding characteristics. Ding Dong and Teflon Zinc Fence have also shared condolences.