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Home > Atlanta Music Scene > Archives > 2008 > November > 02 > Entry
Shakir Stewart:1974-2008
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
This weekend the Atlanta music scene lost an executive instrumental to its development as a Motown of the South, and who most recently ran the day-to-day operations at the best known hip-hop label in the country.
Shakir Stewart, the 34-year-old executive vice president of Def Jam Recordings, was found about 4 p.m. Saturday in the bathroom of his Marietta home, said police spokeswoman Cassie Reece. Reece said Stewart shot himself with a handgun but wouldn’t say who discovered him. Stewart was pronounced dead at Kennestone Hospital.
Stewart was named executive vice president of Def Jam just five months ago, succeeding hip-hop mogul Jay-Z.
Late Saturday night a statement was issued from Island Def Jam Music Group: “LA Reid and all of us at Island Def Jam Music Group are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend and colleague Shakir Stewart. Shakir was an amazing man, in every sense of the word. A truly incredible friend and father who was an inspiration to not only our artists and employees, but to his family and the many people who had the privilege of counting him as a friend. Our hearts and prayers go out to his family at this very difficult time.”
And Sunday evening Stewart’s family and fiance, Michelle Rivers, released this statement: “We would like to thank Shakir’s friends for the tremendous outpouring of love and support we have received during this difficult time. It has helped us to cope with our overwhelming grief and sadness.
It is difficult to express or explain in words what led to the tragic occurance on Saturday. Over the past several weeks, Shakir’s behavior was inconsistent with the man we all know and love.
As much as we all tried to help him, Shakir was in deep pain and largely suffering in silence.
Please remember Shakir for who he was….a wonderful father, partner, son and friend.”
Stewart, a native of Oakland, Calif., came to Atlanta to attend Morehouse College. It was there that he and friends Christopher Hicks, Ryan Glover, Henry “Noonie” Lee and others started throwing parties and concerts around the city as Ivory Coast Entertainment.
Stewart, Hicks, Glover and others would go on to develop the Atlanta-based company Noontime — launching ground for such songwriting, production and executive talents as its founders, as well as Jazze Pha, and Grammy-winners Johnta Austin and Bryan-Michael Cox.
The first significant solo success on Stewart’s professional resume, however, was signing a pre-superstar Beyonce to Reid’s Atlanta-based publishing company, Hitco.
“Basically, I’m the hook-up man, ” he explained to the AJC in 2000 (when he is pictured above, in the back on the left). “I do whatever I need to do to enhance the correct exposure for my client. But I’m also part Les Brown, motivational speaker. I energize my clients to do their best work.”
Stewart was also an A&R consultant at Reid’s now-closed Atlanta imprint, LaFace Records; and Arista Records, to which he signed local Grammy winner Ciara.
Since 2004 he had served as senior vice president of A&R for Def Jam, and vice president, during which time he signed Atlanta rapper Young Jeezy and Miami hip-hop star Rick Ross.
And when Stewart earned his most recent executive title, he was excited when he talked to the AJC about the challenge; if not reluctant to be looked at as “the guy filling Jay-Z’s shoes”: “I don’t really say ‘I’m replacing Jay-Z’. He’s a personal friend. He’s a legend. He’s an icon. But obviously there was a void at the label when he left, and I have accepted that role to lead the company into the future, with L.A. Reid.”
In the credits of his CD “Trilla” Ross thanks “My man Shakir Stewart ‘the deal closer’ ”
“Having Shakir on your team is a good thing,” Jeezy noted before the release of his recent No. 1 CD, “The Recession”.
And the week of the July release of his controversial “Untitled” CD, Atlanta rapper Nas said of Stewart: “He gave me some confidence dealing with all of this. He’s about growth…And you can never catch him off his game. In the club, the office, wherever. He’s always seeing the big picture. Great supporter!”
Sunday afternoon Hicks hoped aloud that people would focus on things like that — how his friend of 18 years lived.
“Whatever happened over the past 24 hours is not a testament to who we all know,” said Hicks, who last spoke with Stewart (pictured above at far left, behind Ludacris) about a week ago. “He was a one-of-a-kind individual. If you looked on his Blackberry [stamp] it said ‘one of one’.” “I mean, Shakir is the kind of guy who would get dressed up for a party none of us were invited to,” Hicks continued. “He had no doubt he was getting in. He was a ‘where there’s a will, there’s a way’ kind of guy. Always.”
Any memories of or condolences for Stewart that you would like to share here, are welcomed.
Comments
By Michele Green
November 3, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this
I’m truly sadden to hear that Shakir is gone, because he was real and very down to earth. I remember when he was starting his career still wearing braces but determined to be the next big man, which he became. I hadn’t seen him for about 10 yrs and I was working the BET awards he was with Antonio Reid and he came over and gave me a big kiss, he hadn’t forgotten where he came from, he was a sweety! Rest in peace my friend!
By Kimberly Raybon
November 3, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this
Wow, I am blown away!! When I first started in the music industry, Shakir was one of the first person’s I met. He was cool and stayed cool, no matter what he was doing. It has been a number of years that I had talked to him personally, but I remember many conversations that we had on him wanting to be an exacutive and help make his mark in the music industry. Also, he never hesitated to encourage someone else to follow their dreams. When I needed advice or an encouraging word, he extended it with no hesitation. He was always cool… my prayers are with his family & friends right now…may God comfort you and be with you. I will always remember his kindness!
By charlotte beckford
November 3, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this
My heart goes out to his family and friends. I hope that you get threw the time with grace. I hope you know that all is well with God and your family member. It was his time, his book was written this way and no one could have stop it from closing this way. God bless and peace to you all.
By charlotte beckford
November 3, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this
My heart goes out to his family and friends. I hope that you get threw the time with grace. I hope you know that all is well with God and your family member. It was his time, his book was written this way and no one could have stop it from closing this way. God bless and peace to you all.
By Kevin LaBron Hatcher
November 3, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this
This is a sad day for Morehouse/Spelman alums and also the ATL music community. Many people new Shakir as an industry mogul—I just know him as my Morehouse brother. I have described to others as ambitious, bright, and compassionate. Always evenly present, cool, and laid back with it. I was so pleased to hear of your most recent appointment at Def Jam. I thought, finally one of the good guys got in. Brother you deserved the best! I am sad and hurt by your untimely departure. Rest in peace always.
By Erin
November 3, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this
I just wanted to send my deepest condolences to the family. I recently suffered through a very deep depression and at times thought of suicide. I used to not really believe that depressed people could really think of suicide. But after experiencing myself, I can truly understand. I really thought of suicide (more than once). I was luckily able to reach out and get help. It saddens me that he was in so much pain. I know that men try to “work things out” on their own. I wish society would reach out to men more about depression. Society categorizes men as being “Strong and can deal with anything”. I’ve heard many men turn down medication because of society’s beliefs of it making you “weak”. Depression is REAL and it affects so many people, even men.
If you are a man reading this and going thru depression, please seek help. Medication really does work including therapy.
My prayers go to the family through this difficult time. What a tragedy to such an amazing person.
Thanks!!
By Sorry, but ...
November 3, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this
“Helped Popularize Gangsta Rap Music” is NOT what I’d like to be remembered for!
By chuckd
November 4, 2008 3:47 AM | Link to this
Rest in Peace Shake we did not see each other since high school but I knew you would always be successful, and you were. It makes me sad to hear of your early pass. ZH
By NRR
November 4, 2008 8:22 AM | Link to this
I was fortunate and blessed to have known Shakir from Morehouse/Spelman years and he was definitely “one of a kind”. My heart goes out to his family and may god rest his soul! Much love to Shakir…you will truly be missed!
By jbean3
November 4, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this
to bob …
If I were you, I would learn to be respectful of a person’s death and not use it for your political views -as tasteless as it is. It just shows the world how ignorant, selfish and unsympathetic you and your kind really are.
I am sorry for the loss of this young man and pray for the family to stay strong.
By c thomas
November 4, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this
WE WILL MISS YOU SHAKIR!!!! THANKS FOR 20 PLUS GREAT YRS OF KNOWING YOU!
By baba
November 4, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this
I remember you in high school and in college, at the AUC and president of the Callie club. You were on the grind then, and I knew you would be great. I sure like everyone who knew you, I will miss seeing you around the ATL, asking me if I’m doing alright. Thanks for always being such a nice, real, and true person, even in your success. My prayers are with your parents, sister, girlfriend, kids, and all your friends. I enjoyed watching you all build your empires. I hope your soul is at rest.
By Sabrena Murray
November 4, 2008 9:47 AM | Link to this
Shakir will truly be missed! He was such a sweet person, outgoing and very humble. When I saw him he always had a smile on his face. I remember one day getting out of my car at a function and he was walking by my door, he reached over before valet could get to me and opened the door with a big smile and said “you look great”. When I saw him or thought of him, I thought of that moment he was a total gentleman. He will be missed and my heart goes out to his family, kids and Michelle. My prayers are with you all! Bless his soul and may he rest in peace now. We love you Shakir!
By you are just that SORRY....
November 4, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this
Sorry - please stay off this blog if you have nothing positive to say - You may not want to be remembered as a “helper” but with what you have just done you will be remembered as a mindless jerk - there is a time and place for everything - this is NOT the time NOR the place.
my condolences to shakir’s family.
God Bless
By LRm216
November 4, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this
Sleep in peace.
By LG
November 4, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this
It is with great sadness that I write this. I was talking w/a friend on yesterday. Reflection of life can be something else. You know how you can want something so bad only to get it and then you are not satisfied at all? I believe this is what happened to this young man. He worked so hard to get to the top - when he got there and looked down - he saw that what he fought for was not what he wanted. Trapped in an unfulfilled place. The said thing is, the only way he saw himself out was to die. I pray that he had the chance to talk with the Father before he died. God is a forgiving God - and again my prayer is that he made peace with God - for what would it profit a man to gain the whole world but in the end, lose his soul?
By addictedtochocolate4ever
November 4, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this
I never knew Mr. Stewart personally but I still offer the family and fiance my condolences. I too recently lost my husband after we were married only 6 weeks. If we dont learn anything else from this tragic event, let us remember there is absolutely NOTHING wrong with seeking help for mental health/depression issues. So often in our community (African-Americans especially) we often associate mental health services as being for “crazy” people. My husband complained of depression and I wish with all my heart I had listened harder. It is OK to need a psychiatrist, medication, or hospitilization for depression/suicidal thoughts etc. It is up to us as friends adn a=family members to take shifts in behavior seriously and reach out to those in need. Take it from someone with many regrets.
By Tee
November 4, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this
I met Shakir at a panel discussion at the AUC in March 2007. I was so impressed with him. He was knowledgeable and seemed to be very down to earth and approachable. An up and coming artist in the audience “dared” the panelists to put their money where their mouth was and purchase his cd. Shakir immediately pulled $20 out of his pocket and bought the cd. I talked to him about my interest in the business and he had his assistant give me his contact information. I was shocked and saddened to hear of his passing. Situations like this really hit home when they involve someone your age. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and those whose lives he touched. Rest in Peace, Shake.
By Tee
November 4, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this
I met Shakir at a panel discussion at the AUC in March 2007. I was so impressed with him. He was knowledgeable and seemed to be very down to earth and approachable. An up and coming artist in the audience “dared” the panelists to put their money where their mouth was and purchase his cd. Shakir immediately pulled $20 out of his pocket and bought the cd. I talked to him about my interest in the business and he had his assistant give me his contact information. I was shocked and saddened to hear of his passing. Situations like this really hit home when they involve someone your age. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and those whose lives he touched. Rest in Peace, Shake.
By Malik Watler
November 4, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this
Rest In Peace My Morehouse Brother
Malik ‘92
By Mahogany
November 4, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this
R.I.P. Shakir, you will be sorely missed.
By Mahogany
November 4, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this
R.I.P. Shakir, you will be sorely missed.
By Mahogany
November 4, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this
R.I.P. Shakir, you will be sorely missed.
By cynthia cromwell
November 4, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this
i’m sorry about the industry called music death roll is really hi now
By cynthia cromwell
November 4, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this
i’m sorry about the industry called music death roll is really hi now
By cynthia cromwell
November 4, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this
i’m sorry about the industry called music death roll is really hi now
By diehard Goodies fan
November 4, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this
Get $ Stewart gone? Dang - he was always on the grind 24/8 because on the 9th day he rest.
I ran into this cat many time at Jack the Rapper and was cool and always was the hookup man…….
I guess mo $ is mo problem but I went through depression but it can really mess a person up if not treat.
Reach out to the one that needs help because it not just they’re going through something.
By tee
November 4, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this
I am sorry for your lost. I didn’t know Shakir personally but he was in my son marketing class at Moorehouse. May God bless your family and know that Shakir is finally at peace.
By jj
November 5, 2008 8:24 AM | Link to this
THIS WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU SURROUND YOURSELF WITH NEGATIVE PEOPLE WHO SPREAD NEGATIVE MESSAGES TO THE PUBLIC.. ALL YOUNG JEEZY AND RICK ROSS TALK ABOUT IS DOPE DEALING. AND LA REID ALSO SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR PROMOTING NEGATIVITY TO THE PUBLIC ALSO. YOU REAP WHAT YOU SEW
By jj
November 5, 2008 8:25 AM | Link to this
THIS WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU SURROUND YOURSELF WITH NEGATIVE PEOPLE WHO SPREAD NEGATIVE MESSAGES TO THE PUBLIC.. ALL YOUNG JEEZY AND RICK ROSS TALK ABOUT IS DOPE DEALING. AND LA REID ALSO SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR PROMOTING NEGATIVITY TO THE PUBLIC ALSO. YOU REAP WHAT YOU SEW
By Jarrod Donoman
November 5, 2008 11:07 AM | Link to this
Shakir Stewart was one of life’s generals. Chris Hicks couldn’t have said it better, whatever has happened over those last 24 hours of his life was not a testament of the man that we all grew to know and love. I am the President of Scriptmaster Films and an Executive Movie Producer within the Koch Records & Filmed Entertainment Family. I had the pleasure of knowing Shakir throughout my dealings within the recording and film industry. I last saw Shakir during a Grammy luncheon honoring Barry Gordy and at an informal dinner with L.A Reid, Dwayne Wiggins, DL Warfield and myself. Even at a dinner amongst the who’s who of the entertainment world, Shakir Steward shined. He will truly be missed. My condolences go out to his family
By Dee
November 5, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this
JJ the world is full of haters and you sound like one of them.
RIP Shakir
By Sheila
November 5, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this
My thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Stewart’s family. It saddens me to hear that he was dealing with issues that he could not handle or resolve without turning to suicide. I feel it was selfish for him to take himself from his kids and not allow them the opportunity to have him in their lives. I really wish something could have been done. As for his fiance (who is also the mother of his children), I know this is a hard time for you but please stay strong and keep your children close and be honest with them. They need you more than ever. Death is hard to deal with but suicide can be avoided. I don’t know you all but love you so much and pray God heals you.
By MARSHAMILLIONS
November 6, 2008 1:18 AM | Link to this
WORDS CAN’T EXPRESS MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY FOR A REALLY HUMBLE YET EXTRAORDINARY MAN WHO I’VE HAD THE PLEASURE OF KNOWING SINCE 10TH GRADE. HE HAS ALWAYS BEEN A ONE OF A KIND INDIVIDUAL WHO KNEW HIS DIRECTION IN LIFE. HE KNEW THE IMPORTANCE OF LIVING LIFE TO THE FULLEST AND WORKED REALLY HARD AND DEDICATED HIMSELF TO THAT FROM BACK THEN. HE WAS A VISIONARY, HE SUPPORTED ANYTHING THAT PROMOTED INTEGRITY, A SENSE OF RESPONSIBILITY AND AN OUTLET FOR OPPORTUNITIES. HE ALWAYS SURROUNDED HIMSELF IN THE COMPANY OF PEOPLE WHO HAD AN POSITIVE AGENDA~HE HAD THE LIGHT THAT SHINED ON HIM IN SUCH A WAY THAT NO MATTER HOW YOU MET HIM, HIS LASTING IMPRESSION NEVER ALLOWED YOU TO FORGET HIM. HE WAS SO CARING~NEVER TURNED HIS BACK ON ANYONE IN NEED OF A CHANCE. HE KEPT A PLEASANT SMILE~HE WAS ALWAYS THE SAME PERSON EVEN IF YOU HADN’T SEEN HIM IN A WHILE. KNOWING SHAKIR WAS NOT ONLY AN OPPORTUNITY~IT WAS A PRIVILEGE. IT’S REALLY HARD TO IMAGINE THAT IN HIS TIME OF NEED, HE DEALT WITH HIS PAIN ALONE AND CHOOSE NOONE ELSE TO SHARE IT WITH. I NEVER THOUGHT…AFTER HE’D WORKED SO HARD AND CAME THUS FAR. I PRAY FOR PEACE IN YOUR HEARTS, STRENGTH~FAITH~GUIDANCE AND COMPLETE UNDERSTANDING FOR ANYONE WHO HAS BEEN TOUCHED BY THIS TRAGEDY. SHAKIR, YOU ARE TRULY MISSED* MY SINCERE PRAYERS ARE WITH THE KIDS, THE ENTIRE FAMILY AND EXTENDED FAMILY, FRIENDS, CO~WORKERS AND ANYONE’S LIFE HE’D TOUCHED OR MADE A SUCCESS. SO MANY PEOPLE WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN WHERE THEY ARE TODAY WITHOUT HIM. WE KNOW, HE IS NOW IN THE HANDS OF GOD IN A MUCH BETTER PLACE & HE HAS ALL THE ANSWERS. MAY GOD CONTINUE TO BLESS YOU ALL, BE ENLIGHTENED BY HIS EXISTENCE AND CONTINUE TO DO WELL AND PROSPER.
BE BLESSED~GOD WILL SOON TAKE AWAY THE PAIN TO HEAL OUR SADNESS*
MARSHAMILLIONS*
By jj
November 6, 2008 3:25 AM | Link to this
NO IM NOT A HATER. JUST LISTEN TO THE LYRICS THAT THESE PEOPLE AT DEF JAM PROMOTED SUCH as RICK ROSS AND JEEZY. SELLING DOPE, AND TELLING THE PUBLIC THATS HOW YOU CAME UP IN THE WORLD. YOU AS A RESPONSIBLE INDIVIDUAL TO SOCIETY SHOULD NOT PROMOTE ILLEGAL ACTS THEREFORE THE DEVIL TOOK HIM OUT PLAIN AND SIMPLE. ITS NOT COOL TO BE A DRUG DEALER, PIMP, OR GANGSTER. HOPEFULLY HE HAD A CHANCE TO REPENT TO THE LORD BECAUSE OBVIOUSLY HE WAS GAINING THE WORLD BUT LOOSING HIS SOUL.
By Blck Mark (937)
November 6, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this
To my friend Shake the world will truley miss you, Thank You For The great Times we had, the WHOLE (937) will miss you. Pop Your Collar Player!!!
By Know to well
November 6, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this
I am touched by this young man in the prime of his life. Yet “money cant heal a hurting soul”. I offer condolences to Michelle Rivers and his children and family. I too have a unsettled spirit. I understand all too well the pain of constant sadness. Smiling in faces, uplifting others when you know deep inside something is missing. Pain so deep you cant hide it much longer and often it appears to be the best option to take the pain away when it wont leave by itself. There is nothing that anyone can do when one is suffering. There’s nothing even therapy or medication can do when one’s soul is troubled. The only true ultimatim you have is “prayer” and believing that the Holy Spirit will push you through life day by day. God Bless you Shakir Stewart! You are at peace now I understand but if only you could have spoke to someone who has been there just one last moment. Michelle, I pray for you and your children now. The pain will lesson, however may never go away, but believe that his spirit is “at peace now”. Sometimes we dont always understand why others do the things they do. Sometimes its not for you to understand because its not “your” suffering. But I know in my spirit that shakir wants you to heal and go on because “he is healed” now and believe it or not… God is with him! Rest in Peace!
By Kim Burse
November 7, 2008 3:54 AM | Link to this
Words can not express how i feel about this loss to the industry. All I can say is that I was humbled by him and Stephen Hill to intrust me to put together the performances for Jeezy and Nas for the BET Hip Hop Awards in Atlanta recently. After rehearsals were over I asked him was he pleased and he said to me in a “duh” expression.. “of course KIM BURSE!” we laughed… never knowing that was to be our last conversation. Much respect to you my brother.. you covered a lot of ground in a short amount of time but your life was not in vain. People were touched, educated, inspired by your drive in this industry. I am PROUD to say I am glad God had our paths to cross and I can say when asked… “oh yes I knew Shakir Stewart!” Watch over us my brother and continue to inspire us from a higher level.. God Bless and Keep your family… you will be missed. -Kim Burse (Creative Dir)
By BadGirl
November 7, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this
jj, you need to get off and stay off this blog. You don’t know what type of life that man lead and you DON’T have a clue as to what you’re talking about. What the heck does Young Jeezy and Rick Ross’ music have to do with this mans untimely death? NOTHING. So before you get back on here, get a clue or how about you just DON’T! Keep you’re negitive where they belong, not on this blg. If you want to talk about him surrounding himself around negitive people, you’re one those negitive ones’s that he probably should have stayed away from. I bet you didn’t even know him personally. Oviously the man was doing something right, he became one of the top executives. What are you doing? Thought so. Nothing, but being a hater. People like you are really dumb because the more you hate on successful people like us, the stronger and more successful we become. Now let’s see you figure that one out STUPID!!!
By BadGirl
November 7, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this
jj, you need to get off and stay off this blog. You don’t know what type of life that man lead and you DON’T have a clue as to what you’re talking about. What the heck does Young Jeezy and Rick Ross’ music have to do with this mans untimely death? NOTHING. So before you get back on here, get a clue or how about you just DON’T! Keep you’re negitive where they belong, not on this blg. If you want to talk about him surrounding himself around negitive people, you’re one those negitive ones’s that he probably should have stayed away from. I bet you didn’t even know him personally. Oviously the man was doing something right, he became one of the top executives. What are you doing? Thought so. Nothing, but being a hater. People like you are really dumb because the more you hate on successful people like us, the stronger and more successful we become. Now let’s see you figure that one out STUPID!!!
By eric
November 7, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this
Well hold up a second the guy does have a point. Although Shake was a great business and savvy pro, still the messages that can be promoted can become dangerous. Yes he was responsible for the Beyonces and so forth but lets take for example the Rick Ross’s also. Do you know who the real Rick Ross is? Do your work and research. Rick Ross helped destroy the Black Community selling crack. Then he takes on the moniker of that guy and people who oversee his project like the label execs will be held responsible in God’s eyes. Then when news came such as Rick Ross being a correctional officer earning a legit living, HE lied and still kept saying he was a dope dealer and so forth. These Label execs like even Eazy E was even taken out by the Devil. I hope Shake Rip but not being biased I do see the big picture!
By Droc1985
November 7, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this
Shake, you were an inspirational brother. I admired your work ethic and your accomplishments, I wish that you could have sought treatment for your depression. The world was only beginnig to see what you had to offer. Man you will be missed thanks for inspiring me.
By PhyllisTaylor
November 9, 2008 11:51 PM | Link to this
I met Shakir in the early nineties when he was a student and young business man at Morehouse. A former Spelmanite and business woman, I owned a hair studio in Midtown ATL called AART. Shakir made a point to stop by to say hello and to give me comp VIP passes to many of his events—The Fernbank Museum of Natural History, The Fox,…his parties were amongst the most fabulous events i have ever attended in my life…paralled to Jermaine Duprees 23rd birthday party at the ATL Botanical Garden and some of Puffy’s gangsta parties. Shakir had the bomb-bomb-bombest galas.
I am deeply, deeply sadden and hurt by the loss of Shake and will never forget him. I also pray that his children, fiance, and family will work through this. Ironically, I had just emailed his office 2 weeks before the tragedy to ask him to consider takeover of managing my standup career. When I did not get a reply, I was puzzled until I received a phone call from my agent telling me of the shocking news. I still can not get over it. At least this blog medium allows for some closure to contribute our sincerest feelings about such a phenomenal man.
I am proud of what he signifies for American Black males—successful, intelligent, ambitious and PROGRESSIVE VISIONARY. His legacy places his name on the shelf amongst such great African American geniuses i.e. Barack Obama. I know Shakir would be deeply touched and proud to know that Obama actually won. When Obama won, I cried for Shakir too because he would appreciate the landslide. So let’s just say that Shake left all of us in good hands. Peace be with you Shakir. You have done an outstanding job with your short life. I love you. Phyllis Taylor
By Mrs. Shawnee Jackson
November 10, 2008 4:38 AM | Link to this
Words can’t explain the pain i feel. I didn’t even know what to say or do when i got the call. So i did what i’ve learned to do best, let Jesus take the wheel and be still. Jimmy held me in our prayer room for what seemed like hours. We prayed for you, your seeds, your girl, your family and your REAL friends. Everyone who even crossed paths with you for a second saw your light! I’ll always honor and respect your loyalty, friendship & wisdom. Thanks for having my back when i had so many knives in my back, i didn’t even know i had a back, when you told me how to move in a room full of vultures, when we laughed when everyone thought i was crying! Boy, i hate that i hadn’t spoke to you in a minute! Most of all, i love that you respected me as woman and business woman. You always uplifted me and kept me on point throughout my journey. The ironic thing about our crazy “paternal twin joke” is that, whose going to be my twin now? Damn Shake!!! I just knew we we’re going to paint the White House Black! Whose going to advise Barak now? LOL. I have to laugh to keep from crying. So here’s a farewell to a General with the heart of a soldier…., the storms over for you my friend. May you finally rest in peace. I’m truly saddened, because was suppose to be your “virtual twin” and i didn’t even know the storm was coming. I won’t even try to understand why. The only thing i know, is for your short time here on earth…, your impact will be everlasting!!!! Goodnight my friend my brothers keeper.
By Mrs. Shawnee Jackson
November 10, 2008 4:39 AM | Link to this
Words can’t explain the pain i feel. I didn’t even know what to say or do when i got the call. So i did what i’ve learned to do best, let Jesus take the wheel and be still. Jimmy held me in our prayer room for what seemed like hours. We prayed for you, your seeds, your girl, your family and your REAL friends. Everyone who even crossed paths with you for a second saw your light! I’ll always honor and respect your loyalty, friendship & wisdom. Thanks for having my back when i had so many knives in my back, i didn’t even know i had a back, when you told me how to move in a room full of vultures, when we laughed when everyone thought i was crying! Boy, i hate that i hadn’t spoke to you in a minute! Most of all, i love that you respected me as woman and business woman. You always uplifted me and kept me on point throughout my journey. The ironic thing about our crazy “paternal twin joke” is that, whose going to be my twin now? Damn Shake!!! I just knew we we’re going to paint the White House Black! Whose going to advise Barak now? LOL. I have to laugh to keep from crying. So here’s a farewell to a General with the heart of a soldier…., the storms over for you my friend. May you finally rest in peace. I’m truly saddened, because was suppose to be your “virtual twin” and i didn’t even know the storm was coming. I won’t even try to understand why. The only thing i know, is for your short time here on earth…, your impact will be everlasting!!!! Goodnight my friend my brothers keeper.
By J.D
November 16, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this
SHAKIR AND VONCE WERE GAY LOVERS
By DaKid
November 19, 2008 5:52 PM | Link to this
WHY DID HE DO THIS YALL HAVE NOT EXPLAIND THAT
By tese
December 3, 2008 1:39 AM | Link to this
i was in love with this man~now he’s gone.may his family and friends be blessed and i am praying for you all.no one knew what was going on in his head,unfortunately it turned out like this.dang,another good looking brother wasted and for what??
By alysia boyd
December 23, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this
I am sorry to here about Shakir death will keep his family in our prayers. Love always the Stewart, Johnson and Boyd family.
By 702Dionne
January 2, 2009 8:06 PM | Link to this
Peace & Blessings to Shakir’s family.
I hope this serves as a wake up call to the artists that he worked with.
All these b******* rappers offering b****** to the world will definitely reap what they sow.
I agree with JJ above, I work with middle and highshcool students, and I see daily how The Lil Wayne’s and Jeezy’s NEGATIVELY affect our children.
By G.A. GURL
February 7, 2009 11:13 PM | Link to this
SHAME ON YOU PEOPLE FOR BEING SO RUDE AND DISRESPECTFUL! WHATEVER HE WAS GOING THRU IS BETWEEN HIM AND GOD. LET GOD BE HIS JUDGE, NOT YOU!!! LET HIM REST IN PEACE…MAN!