By Avery Field
Takeoff, also known as Kirshnik Khari Ball, was born in Lawrenceville, Georgia, brought up by his mother, Edna, along with best friends Quavo and Offset. The three boys grew up together, and considered each other family. Takeoff’s emphasis on family loyalty was reflected in his music. The rapper’s works in the famous rap group ‘Migos’ leaves a strong legacy behind. His love of music dates back to seventh grade with making rhythms and eventually producing his first mixtape Juug Season. Takeoff’s childhood love for Southern hip-hop first inspired Migos as teenagers in the Atlanta suburbs of Gwinnett County. Takeoff was considered a pioneer of rapping in choppy, staccato triplets known as the “Migos flow”.
Tragically, Takeoff’s life was lost earlier this month to a shooting outside of a Houston bowling alley. Police claimed a private party of forty to fifty people had been taking place when the open fire commenced. Officials have no reason to believe he was involved in anything criminal. Authorities are still investigating, asking for any relevant information to be presented, pertaining to this crime. Takeoff never maintained a public profile but still was a favorite of the famous trio. Tributes continue to flood social media, as people mourn the loss.
He leaves behind a powerful cultural legacy, as he was an inspiration for many young rappers that started out just like him.
