Legendary rapper Keith Elam aka Guru (acronym for Gifted Unlimited Rhymes Universal or God is Universal; he is the Ruler Universal) has passed away of cancer-related causes on Monday (April 19) just a month after undergoing surgery following a heart attack. Guru was 43 years old.

Guru rose to fame as part of the duo with DJ Premier, Gang Starr. “The world has lost one of the best MCs and hip-hop icons of all-time — my loyal best friend, partner, and brother, Guru,” French producer Solaar said. “Guru has been battling cancer for well over a year and has lost his battle! This is a matter that Guru wanted private until he could beat it, but tragically, this did not happen. The cancer took him. Now the world has lost a great man and a true genius.”

R.I.P. Guru.