R.I.P. Baatin of Slum Village

Another legend and pioneer of hip hop has passed away today. My thoughts go out to Baatin's family and close friends, keep your heads up and do all you can to maintain a positive attitude and outlook in this extremely difficult time. Baatin, you will be missed tremendously, but your music will live forever. Rest in peace.

HipHopDX: The Detroit Free Press confirms the death of Titus "Baatin" Glover, founding member of Slum Village. While the exact circumstances of his death are still unknown, family friend Ty Townson says Glover's body was found in the 14000 block of Anglin Street in Detroit. Baatin's mother, Alberta Glover, told the Free Press she also did not know the circumstances of her son's death and was waiting for further details from the Wayne County medical examiner. Baatin was 35 years old.

Friends and family will gather for a public remembrance of at 8 p.m. Sunday at Elements Gallery, located at 2125 Michigan Avenue in Detroit. DJ House Shoes has initiated a campaign to accept donations to help with the needs of Baatin and his family at www.rensoul.com.

Producer 9th Wonder was among several artists who sent their condolences out via twitter. "RIP BAATIN of SLUM VILLAGE-LETS CELEBRATE OUR PEOPLE WHILE THEY ARE HERE..........we are losing folk," wrote 9th. "R.I.P. baatin of slum village forever,” wrote singer Dwele on his page.

Baatin, along with J Dilla and T3, was a founding member of Slum Village. The group released two albums, 1997's Fan-Tas-Tic (Vol. 1), and 2000's Fantastic, Vol. 2 (2000).

When Dilla left the group in 2002 in pursuit of a solo career (and was subsequently relpaced by Detroit rapper Elzhi), Baatin followed in suit prior to the release of Slum Village's 2004 release Detroit Deli. Baatin reportedly left due to undisclosed medical issues.

As previously reported, Baatin was set to rejoin the group, and they were set to release a new LP this coming September.

Talib Kweli also expressed his shock regarding the rapper's passing, as frequent collaborator Hi-Tek was going to man deejaying duties for Slum Village tonight.

“I’m at a loss right now,” wrote Kweli on Twitter. “Hi-Tek was set to DJ for Slum Village tonight. RIP Baatin. More influential than you can imagine. Slum Village forever.”