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The family of Oliver "Power" Grant has confirmed how the co-founder of the Wu-Tang Clan died.
On Sunday, March 1, Grant's family and the iconic rap group issued a joint statement less than a week after his death. In it, they confirm that Grant passed away following a battle with pancreatic cancer. Grant was also surrounded by his children, his mother, family members, and his closest friends in his final moments.
"The grant and Wu-Tang families are profoundly thankful for the overwhelming outpouring of love and support from around the world," they wrote. "As we navigate this period of deep mourning, we kindly ask for continued respect and privacy for the family."
Grant grew up in Staten Island and was a close friend of RZA's older brother, Divine. He was one of the first to see the vision before Wu-Tang established its legacy in Hip-Hop. He helped the group get off the ground with a significant donation and served as an executive producer on a majority of Wu's albums. He also founded Wu Wear, which was one of the first artist-inspired clothing lines. Following his death, Wu-Tang's own RZA, Raekwon, Method Man, U-God, Ghostface Killah, and others took to social media to pay tribute to him.
"A 5 star General in the army of life !" Raekwon said. "They don’t make em like you anymore . thankyou BIG POWERFUL we gave you that name for many reasons . may allah preserve a place for you and forgive ya sins . condolences to the Grant family ! rest well Pook."
Grant's family also announced that they will hold his wake on March 13 and his funeral on March 14 in the New York City area. Rest in peace, Power.