Nicky Da B, New Orleans bounce artist, dies at 24

Nicky Da B, one of the leading figures in the bawdy and joyful New Orleans “bounce music” scene, has died. He was 24.

His management team confirmed the death of the artist, born Nickesse Toney, to Pitchfork on Tuesday. A cause of death was not immediately made public.

“It is with heaviness in our hearts today that we confirm the passing of Nicky Da B,” his management team said in a statement.

“Nicky was a beautiful soul and we will always be grateful for his magnetic personality and loving spirit. We were inspired by his talent as much as his tireless optimism, compassion and humility. Our condolences go out to his family at this time.”

The artist came to prominence with his appearance on Diplo’s single “Express Yourself,” whose video showcased the raunchy, charismatic world of bounce music culture and dancing. He released an album, “Don’t Forget About Da B,” in 2012.

Big Freedia, the bounce genre’s breakout artist, tweeted that his death represented an irreplaceable loss for the New Orleans music scene: “I’m truly at a loss for words at the news that my friend + fellow Bounce artist @NickyDaB has passed away. #toomanyfunerals R.I.P NickyDaB”

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