One thing about hip-hop tragedies is that heads do one hell of a job in the memorial department. In the event of Eyedea's demise, I would expect nothing less from the good folks at Rhymesayers; more than any other influential rap label that I know of, the Minnesota clan really is like a family. After all; they did help raise one of the greatest battle cats to ever spit.
Rhymesayers publicists sent out an impressive email package late last week, featuring all sorts of information that one might need to know in the wake of this sort of passing (for funeral and subsequent show info, see the bottom of this post). I tend to avoid recycling press releases, but the sentiments from labelmates and close collaborators are much more insightful than a third party like myself could ever be on such a matter:
Mikey was the 15 year old kid sleeping on my couch at Scribble Jam, slaying MCs 10 yrs older than him. There was nothing anyone could do. I've never met a more supportive mother in my life than Kathy. Kathy is the shit. -Mr. Dibbs
Mikey was an artist in constant transition. If you blinked and missed a moment of brilliance he'd be sure to fill you in on what you missed. Now that he can't be here to do that we will gladly do it for him. With the heaviest of hearts. -Sage Francis
Eyedea was a precious soul. We're better artists for working with him and better people for knowing him. He added so generously to our lives and his passing leaves an empty space in our hearts. His spirit will forever be entwined in our life changing moments. Thank you, Mikey for sharing your light with us. We love you so very much and your music, insight and laughter will never leave us. -Brother Ali
I met Mikey when he was 14 and he was so full of energy, but so focused for his age. I have always been amazed at his knowledge and thirst for life being so young. On more than one occasion, I have had to remind myself how young he really was while we were all coming up. He was such a special individual, he mastered everything he touched and wanted to touch everything. He was the most free person I have ever known and he approached life like a scientist, wanting to dissect all of her meanings so he could share them with others. Mikey had an amazing spirit and a truly gifted mind and all of us who were blessed to experience this immediately became better people. This life couldn't contain my friend and so he's moved on to his next journey, but I know he'll forever be in our hearts and minds pushing us to live life to the fullest, be better and be free. -Brent Sayers (aka Siddiq aka Stress)
My friend, my brother. I do not know who I would be without your influence in my life. You challenged me without tearing me down. You pushed and encouraged me to be a better person. You had my back even when I didn't have my own back. Your words, thoughts, and ideas impacted me in ways that I probably haven't fully realized yet. You made me laugh and cry. You made me look and question. Thank you for everything. I love you Mikey. -Slug
"I've won more battles than your bitch ass has lost"
While I didn't have as many opportunities to interview Eyedea as I did many of his Rhymesayers comrades - I think we spoke two or three times - I can confirm that he's indeed the kind and thoughtful person that his friends say he was. Two years ago, when I entered a rap battle for a Boston Phoenix feature story, he was happy to school me in the art of raw for more than a half-hour. And if there was one thing I learned in my freestyle experience, it's that you're either born with the gift, like Eyedea, or you're not, like me.
For anyone who wants a closer look into Eyedea's early career, I really recommend this 2001 City Pages profile (it's the kind of story that alt-weeklies do - not the kind you find in hip-hop rags). He was a remarkable prodigy in every sense, even venturing through indie rock terrain before returning to hip-hop with DJ Abilities, and stepping back into his role at Rhymesayers, which dropped By the Throat just last year (amazing cover image below). On that note, Rest In Peace Eyedea - an esteemed underground legend in both life and death.
Memorial Page Here (Including RSE Radio Tribute MP3 Download)
Make Donations Here
Leave a Memory on the RSE Facebook Page Here
Public Wake:
Micheal "eyedea" Larsen Memorial
Date: Thursday, October 28, 2010
Public: 7:30 - 10:00PM
Location: Crowne Plaza St. Paul Riverfront, Minnesota Grand Ballroom
Address: 11 East Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55101
Sending Flowers:
If you are interested in sending flowers for the memorial, all deliveries must be made to arrive on Thursday, October 28, 2010. Please make deliveries to arrive prior to 12:00PM CST.
Send to: Crowne Plaza St. Paul Riverfront, Minnesota Grand Ballroom, c/o Micheal Larsen Memorial, 11 East Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55101.
A Celebration of the life of Micheal "eyedea" Larsen
Date: Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Location: First Avenue Mainroom, 701 1st Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55403
Doors: 5:00PM
Ages: All Ages
Donation: $20
Tickets will be on sale: Monday, October 25, 2010 at 5:00PM CST
Tickets will be available at Fifth Element, 2411 Hennepin Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55405. For those of you that are not in the Twin Cities area; a limited amount of tickets will be available online at Etix.com.
There is no guest list. All donations will go to the family of Micheal "eyedea" Larsen.
Latest Slideshows
