Saafir facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Saafir
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Saafir in 2020
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | Reggie Gibson |
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| Born | August 23, 1970 Oakland, California, U.S. |
| Died | November 19, 2024 (aged 54) |
| Genres | Hip hop |
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Reggie Gibson (born August 23, 1970 – died November 19, 2024), known as Saafir, was an American rapper, producer, and actor. He was also part of the rap group Golden State Project. This group included other famous rappers like Ras Kass and Xzibit.
Early Life and Music Career
Saafir was born in Oakland, California. When he was younger, he lived with the famous rapper Tupac Shakur. Saafir also started his career as a dancer for the group Digital Underground.
In November 1994, Saafir took part in a well-known rap battle in the Bay Area. He and his group, Hobo Junction, competed against Casual and the Hieroglyphics Crew. This battle was broadcast live on the radio show The Wake Up Show. News about this battle helped bring attention to the hip-hop music scene in the Bay Area.
Saafir first started recording music in 1993. He appeared on several songs for Digital Underground's album The Body-Hat Syndrome. He also appeared on Casual's album Fear Itself in 1994.
Acting and Albums
Saafir also acted in the movie Menace II Society. He played a character named Harold Lawson. He also had a song on the movie's soundtrack.
Later, Saafir signed a deal with Qwest Records. He worked with the Hobo Junction production team to create his first album. This album was called Boxcar Sessions and came out in 1994. He also made an album called Trigonometry using the name Mr. No No.
In 1999, he released The Hit List under his Saafir name again. This album featured music produced by Stevie J. Other rappers like Kam, Jayo Felony, and Chino XL also appeared on the album.
In 2006, Saafir released his fourth album, Good Game: The Transition. This album talked about big changes in his life. These changes included his health challenges and his decision to become a Muslim.
Saafir's son, Saafir Gibson, also started making music in 2012. He uses the name Saafir, just like his father.
Health Challenges
On July 30, 1992, Saafir was a passenger on TWA Flight 843. During an emergency, he experienced a back injury.
In 2013, it was shared that Saafir was using a wheelchair. This was due to health issues related to his spine. Saafir later spoke on The Wake Up Show to confirm his condition. He also helped clear up any misunderstandings about his health.
Death
Saafir passed away on November 19, 2024. He was 54 years old. He was surrounded by his friends and family when he died. The exact reason for his death was not shared. However, Saafir had been dealing with various health problems for some time.
Discography
- 1994: Boxcar Sessions
- 1998: Trigonometry
- 1999: The Hit List
- 2006: Good Game: The Transition
- 2009: Fast Lane (EP)
