Rapper Lil Poppa Dies at 25

The prolific Georgia artist scored hits with songs like "Love & War" and "Purple Hearts".

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Rapper Lil Poppa, whose real name was Janarious Mykel Wheeler, has died at the age of 25. The Fulton County Medical Examiner's Office confirmed the news, though the manner and cause of death are still pending investigation. Lil Poppa, a Jacksonville-based musician, had a prolific career, releasing five full albums and numerous singles in just one decade, including the hit "Love & War" in 2021.

Why it matters

Lil Poppa was a rising star in the rap industry, known for his vulnerable and unflinching lyrics that dealt with personal struggles. His sudden death at a young age is a tragic loss for the music community.

The details

Lil Poppa, who was signed to Yo Gotti's Collective Music Group imprint, released his most recent single "Out of Town Bae" just five days before his death. In a 2021 interview, he spoke about the ease of being an artist as long as you have something to talk about, saying "as long as you've been through something, it's gon' always be easy."

  • Lil Poppa dropped his first song, "Fall Off", in the summer of 2016.
  • Lil Poppa's biggest hit, "Love & War", was released in 2021.
  • Lil Poppa released his most recent single, "Out of Town Bae", just five days before his death on February 19, 2026.

The players

Lil Poppa

A 25-year-old rapper from Jacksonville, Florida who had a prolific career, releasing five full albums and numerous singles in just one decade.

Yo Gotti

A rapper who founded the Collective Music Group imprint that Lil Poppa was signed to.

GloRilla

A Grammy-nominated breakout star who is also signed to Yo Gotti's Collective Music Group.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Being an artist is easy as long as you got something to talk about. As long as you've been through something, it's gon' always be easy.”

— Lil Poppa (Audiomack)

The takeaway

Lil Poppa's sudden death at the young age of 25 is a tragic loss for the music industry, as he was a rising star known for his vulnerable and honest lyrics that resonated with fans. His prolific output in a short period of time showcased his talent and potential, leaving many to wonder what more he could have accomplished.