Eric Hoskins, a.k.a. Money Ray, one of the legendary
Cold Crush Brothers, passed away at the young age of 38. It came as a great
shock to everyone when he was diagnosed with cancer just five weeks ago.
On Thursday, October 3, Money Ray succumbed
to cancer. Group members told AllHipHop.com that Money Ray’s sudden death came
as a shock to everyone because he was believed to be the healthiest member of
the group. Charlie Chase emphasized that Ray was always eating right and working
out.
Originally, Money Ray was known for being a dancer
of the Cold Crush crew. He and his dance partner, Henry, were known as the "Smurf
Twins." When member JDL was not able to make a performance one fateful
day, the Cold Crush Brothers, which consist of DJ Tony Tone, DJ Charlie Chase,
Grandmaster Caz, KayGee, Easy AD and JDL, asked Money Ray to fill in. From that
day on, he emceed with them full time.
"Our prayers go out to his family and to
the Brothers," Easy AD told AllHipHop.com in a statement. "Please
tell fans they can go to www.ColdCrushBrothers.com
and leave a message on our guest book. Thank you."
The Cold Crush Brothers, renowned for their stage
stomping performances and funky melodies, have been referred to as setting the
standards for hip-hop.
Appearing in the one of the earliest hip-hop
movies, “Wild Style” released in the early 1980’s, the Cold Crush
Brothers incorporated break-dancing, emceeing and dj’ing on film.
The Cold Crush Brothers were also one of the
first hip-hop groups to rock stages abroad by taking their high-energy stage
show to Japan in the 80’s.
Our deepest condolences go out to Money Ray’s
family and friends. He will be sorely missed.
Please check the www.ColdCrushBrothers.com
for wake and/or funeral information.
