Tragic Death of Rapper Xatar at 43

The German rap community is mourning the loss of prominent rapper Xatar, born Giwar Hajabi, who was found deceased in his home in Cologne at the age of 43. The news was confirmed by a spokesperson from the Cologne public prosecutor's office on Friday.

Tributes have poured in from fellow artists, including journalist and presenter Rooz, who expressed disbelief over the news in a heartfelt post on Instagram. He shared memories with Xatar, reflecting on their friendship and the profound impact of the rapper's passing.

Another colleague, rapper Farid Bang, also took to social media to honor Xatar, acknowledging his legendary status in the German rap scene and promising to keep his memory alive. Xatar's former music manager, Marina Buzunashvili, shared a touching photo of the two, accompanied by a message that conveyed hope for a reunion in the future.

As of now, the cause of Xatar's death remains unknown. Several years prior, he had announced a hiatus from the music industry, seeking to reset his life amidst various personal challenges, including health issues.

The public prosecutor's office has initiated a death investigation to determine if there were any signs of criminal involvement in the rapper's demise. An autopsy has been conducted, which did not reveal any signs of external violence. However, the investigation is ongoing to uncover further details.

Xatar, who fled Iran with his family as a child, leaves behind his wife Farvah and their five children. He was a pivotal figure in the German hip-hop landscape, having founded the label 'Alles oder Nix,' which launched the careers of many successful artists, including SSIO, Schwesta Ewa, and Mero.

His life story was compellingly depicted in the film 'Rheingold,' directed by Fatih Akin, released in 2022. The film, which chronicles Xatar's tumultuous youth and eventual rise in the music industry, achieved significant success at the box office, drawing around 170,000 viewers in its opening weekend and receiving a 'particularly valuable' rating from the German Film and Media Evaluation.

Throughout his life, Xatar faced challenges, including a notorious incident in 2009 where he, along with accomplices, impersonated customs officers to rob a cash transport, leading to his imprisonment for eight years. He was released after serving approximately three years, a chapter that contributed to his cult status in the rap community. Upon attending the premiere of 'Rheingold,' he remarked on his transformation, stating he no longer identified with his past criminal behavior.

As fans and fellow artists reflect on Xatar's legacy, his influence on the German rap scene remains undeniable, marking a significant loss for the music industry.