Singer and rap scene legend Nate Dogg has passed away at 41 after years of deteriorating health. Exact cause of death is unkown, although the rapper had suffered two massive strokes in recent years. One in 2007 that left him partially paralyzed and one in 2008.

Having begun singing at a young age in church, he formed the group 213 with Snoop Dogg and Warren G in 1991, setting in place what would be a prolific career.

Making his debut on Dr. Dre’s album The Chronic, Nate Dogg worked with big west coast artists such as Tupac (notably on the song “How Long Will They Mourn Me” on the album Thug Life: Volume 1), and released four of his own albums, including the highly successful Music & Me. He was nominated for four Grammys for collaborations with big artists, as well, including Eminem, Ludacris and Warren G.