Rapper Steve ‘Baba Zumbi’ Gaines of Zion dies at 49; death confirmed

Rapper Steve ‘Baba Zumbi’ Gaines of Zion I has died at the age of 49.

The Oakland rapper, who was a founding member of the rap group Zion I, died on Aug. 13.

Gaines’ family confirmed his death with KQED.

He reportedly died from complications due to COVID-19

‘It is with utter disbelief and great sadness that the Gaines family shares the news of the passing of Steve ‘Zumbi” Gaines on Friday, August 13, 2021,” the family said. “Gaines, 49 and the MC of the critically acclaimed hip-hop group Zion I, passed away at Alta Bates Hospital today in the early morning from unknown causes. The family requests privacy in this very challenging time while they await further details.” They added “Steve is survived by three sons, his mother and his brother.”