NZ rapper Louie Knuxx dies

The New Zealand hip-hop community is in mourning after news local rapper, MC and writer Todd Williams - aka Louie Knuxx - has died.

Louis Knuxx Photo: Supplied

While there has been no official announcement of his death, tributes have been flowing since last night for him.

The circumstances surrounding his death are not yet known, although Stuff is reporting he died while out running in Melbourne Friday morning. He was reportedly 42.

Getting his start with New Plymouth hip-hop outfit Dirtbag District, before graduating to Breakin Wreckwordz, Louie Knuxx then served as the elder statesman of the Young, Gifted and Broke collective.

We are very saddened to hear of the passing of Louie Knuxx. So many people in the New Zealand music community are reeling from the news, and our thoughts are with his family and friends. https://t.co/oUZgnIcBCS

— AudioCulture (@AudioCultureNZ) August 14, 2021

Really sad to hear about Louie Knuxx. He was a great guy and did great things for people. What a loss to his community and to music.

— Sam[uel] Smith (@sgowsmith1988) August 13, 2021

Can’t process this news. Can’t believe it. Thanks for having me at your house in NP when I was an annoying 18 year old. You had a challenging start and dedicated your life to helping others. You touched many lives. Forever my hero. Rest In Peace Louie Knuxx.

— Mike Hall (@legalmoney) August 13, 2021

Ah, man… Really sad to hear the passing of Louie Knuxx. Loved a good banter. Definitely personified individuality and in many ways, was ahead of his time. Big love to my NZ family who are really hurting right now. Stay safe, take care. Bless…

— Hau (@hauiebeast) August 13, 2021

Louie has an extensive history of producing unvarnished reality rap music in this country.

Louie also found success in his role as a youth mentor with South Auckland's Nga Rangitahi Toa creative arts initiative.