Pimp C, real name Chad Butler, of the hip hop duo UGK was found dead this morning.

Via TMZ

L.A. County Fire responded to a 911 call at the Mondrian Hotel, located on trendy Sunset Strip in Hollywood. They arrived to his sixth floor hotel room to find him dead in bed.

Pimp C made headlines this year when he lashed out Ne Yo and Russell Simmons in an interview with Ozone Magazine. The controversy helped launch UGK’s album “Underground Kingz” to number one in it’s first week release. He was the co-owner of Trill Entertainment along with partner Bun B, and has been featured on Jay-z’s hit single “Big Pimpin” and Three 6 Mafia’s “Sippin on some Sizzurp”.

Statement from his manager

“I was so very proud of Chad and the growth he has shown since his release from prison; as an artist and businessman and as a person. As one half of the legendary Texas group UGK, Chad was finally seeing the results of the years of love and labor that he and Bun B have put in over the years, culminating in the tremendous success of their album, Underground Kingz. Chad was set to soar with not only a new solo deal on Jive Records, but a lucrative publishing deal, a new satellite radio show, several group projects and a national cologne endorsement. Chad had everything to live for, making his unexpected passing a travesty.

Right now, my number one concern is the well being and livelihood of his family who are the ones most deeply affected by this loss. All efforts will be made to ensure that they are properly cared for in this tragic time and beyond.

As Chad’s friend and manager, and on behalf of his family and those closest to him, we ask that you, the press, keep reports of his passing to tributes to his amazing contributions as an artist and wait for the facts surrounding his death to come to light. Please let us all remember Pimp C as the kind and warmhearted man and rap music pioneer that he was. source

Condolences