A year ago on this day, the world lost Atlanta legend Carlos Walker, better known as Shawty Lo. Many remember Lo as a member of the group D4L, before his solo hits like “Dey Know” and “Foolish” propelled his career.
As co-founder of the group D4L, short for Down for Life, Shawty Lo was a pioneer of the "snap rap" movement that commanded the attention of all of Hip Hop in the early 2000's. The group had clubs and parties on lock with songs like "Scotty" and "Betcha Can't Do It Like Me". Their smash hit "Laffy Taffy" would hit No. 1 on the Hot 100.
A tragic car accident in which Lo’s 2016 Audi crashed into a guardrail off of Cascade Road ultimately ended the Bankhead rapper’s life. He was only 40 years old and survived by his 11 children. His posthumous album, R.I.C.O., was released earlier this year.
Shawty Lo gave Atlanta priceless moments and anthems to feed the streets. From his beef with T.I. to his iconic video for "Dey Know", Shawty Lo never had a problem keeping it real. The “Dunn Dunn” rapper was loved and admired by his peers and the community alike. Today we take some time to remember Lo as the Atlanta staple that he was and continues to be. Rest in peace and honor to Shawty Lo.