Family Bereavement

NAIROBI – Kenyan hip-hop artist Gloria Edna Nyabange, professionally known as Xtatic, is in mourning following the death of her father. The rapper announced the news to the public on Monday, 27 October 2025, through a series of heartfelt posts on her official Instagram account.

In a post featuring a photo of her father, she wrote a simple, poignant caption: “Rest easy, pops.” Further details were shared on her Instagram Stories, where she noted the exact time of his passing. "29:56, my dad was pronounced dead," one post read, followed by another stating, "He is no longer with us as of a few minutes ago." The family has not released his name or the cause of death. These details remain unconfirmed as the family navigates its loss.

Industry and Fan Support

The announcement was met with an immediate wave of support and condolences from fellow artists, media personalities, and fans. Notable figures in the entertainment industry, including radio presenter Tallia Oyando, rapper Femi One, and media personality Amina Abdi Rabar, were among those who shared messages of comfort on her social media page. The collective response highlights Xtatic's respected position within the East African music community.

A Pioneering Career

Xtatic, born Gloria Edna Nyabange, rose to prominence in the early 2010s with her sharp lyrical style and commanding presence. Her independently produced music video for “The Prep Track” caught the attention of international record label Sony Music Entertainment Africa.

In 2012, she signed a landmark multi-album and full management deal with the label, a first of its kind for a Kenyan artist at the time. The deal, under Sony's RCA label, placed her on a global roster with established international stars and positioned her for a pan-African and global career. Following the signing, she released tracks such as “Wild” and “Hit 'Em Up,” which gained traction across the continent and solidified her reputation as one of Kenya's most formidable hip-hop acts. In past interviews, she noted her father had initially hoped she would pursue a career in law.

This is the second major parental loss for the artist; she previously announced the passing of her mother in May 2015. As the artist and her family grieve, the Kenyan music scene has rallied around one of its influential voices during a difficult time. Further details regarding funeral and memorial arrangements have not yet been made public. FURTHER INVESTIGATION REQUIRED.