Well-known 90s New York underground rapper Mr. Complex, whose actual title is Corey S. Roberts, reportedly handed away final Friday, February 6, 2026. Cause of demise stays unconfirmed. He was 57.

The Queens-born lyricist emerged through the Nineteen Nineties, a interval when unbiased artists relied on vinyl, street-level promotion, and lyrical credibility to construct their viewers. Instagram consumer @SoSevere paid tribute to the late rapper on Sunday as tributes flooded social media.

“Always independent and thoughtful,” he captioned the publish that includes a tribute to Mr. Complex. “Real about the industry and never chasing hype. Queens in your heart, lyricism in your soul. You saw how the machine worked and chose your own path anyway. That always meant something to me. Rest In Paradise.” 

Pete Rock, DJ Jazzy Jeff, and DJ Spinna had been among the many many hip-hop legends to pay their respects to the Queens legend. After rap, Roberts would turn out to be a filmmaker, producer, and extra.

Remembering Roberts, DJ Spinna writes, “One of the most imaginative minds I’ve ever known, and a naturally funny brother who would have you in stitches with laughter even when dealing with his own personal struggles. Thank you for all of the years of creativity and friendship. Love you forever bro. Strength and condolences to all of his family members and friends.”

Mr. Complex got here up within the period of the 12-inch single, the place sharp writing and presence mattered greater than visibility. His data carried precision, self-discipline, and an mental weight that separated him from the pack.

In 1995, his breakout single “Visualize” broke by way of the underground ceiling and earned chart recognition alongside major-label releases. It was a uncommon accomplishment for an unbiased rapper on the time.

RIP Corey “Mr. Complex” Roberts

That second positioned Mr. Complex as greater than a distinct segment favourite. He represented a technology of artists dedicated to independence with out limiting ambition.

His supply mirrored Queens grit, whereas his songwriting confirmed construction and function. He by no means chased traits. Instead, he trusted craft.

In 2000, Rawkus Records launched “Complex Catalogue,” a compilation capturing his influential 12-inch run. The mission preserved an important chapter of unbiased hip-hop earlier than digital platforms reshaped discovery. It additionally launched his work to listeners who missed the vinyl period.

Mr. Complex remained energetic for many years. He launched 5 solo albums, every sharpening his perspective. His last mission, 2017’s “F0rever New,” averted nostalgia and leaned into evolution, signaling development quite than closure.

Collaboration performed a significant function in his profession. He was a founding member of Polyrhythm Addicts alongside DJ Spinna, Shabaam Sahdeeq, and later Tiye Phoenix. The group launched “Rhyme-Related” in 1999 and returned with “Break Glass” in 2007, reaffirming their chemistry years later.

He additionally maintained shut ties with Organized Konfusion’s Prince Po and Pharoahe Monch. His résumé contains work with Biz Markie, Dilated Peoples, Large Professor, O.C., Sadat X, and Morcheeba.

Mr. Complex by no means sought mainstream validation, but his affect traveled far. His passing marks the lack of a gentle voice. His catalog stays proof that unbiased hip-hop constructed its basis on talent, intent, and integrity.