Rapper Lil Poppa Dies at 25 After New Music Release

The musician's death was confirmed by the Fulton County Medical Examiner's Office in Georgia just days after he dropped his new song "Out of Town Bae".

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Rapper Lil Poppa, born Janarious Mykel Wheeler, has reportedly died at the age of 25. The musician died in Georgia on Wednesday, February 18, according to multiple news outlets. His death was confirmed by the Fulton County Medical Examiner's Office, though the cause and manner of death are still pending investigation.

Why it matters

Lil Poppa was a rising star in the rap music scene, having signed with Yo Gotti's Collective Music Group and released his latest album "Almost Normal Again" just last August. His sudden passing at a young age has shocked and saddened his fans, who praised him for his ability to connect with them through his music.

The details

Lil Poppa's new song "Out of Town Bae" was released on February 13, just days before his death. He was set to perform in New Orleans next month. The rapper got his big break in 2018 with the independently released single "Purple Hearts", which amassed millions of views on YouTube. In a 2021 interview, Lil Poppa said fans often praised him for helping them through tough times with his music.

  • Lil Poppa died on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
  • His new song "Out of Town Bae" was released on February 13, 2026.
  • Lil Poppa was set to perform in New Orleans next month.

The players

Lil Poppa

A 25-year-old rapper who was signed to Yo Gotti's Collective Music Group and had recently released his latest album "Almost Normal Again".

Yo Gotti

The founder of Collective Music Group, the record label that Lil Poppa was signed to.

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The takeaway

The sudden passing of Lil Poppa at just 25 years old has left his fans and the music community in mourning. As a rising star who connected with his listeners through his music, his death serves as a tragic reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing talented artists while they are still with us.