There are so many groups and acts that owe a debt to De la Soul for being the first of a brand of music that meant so much to fans of the group and music as a whole. And Dave's style was unique and was a perfect compliment to Pos's.

On a personal note, I hope and pray that Dave's family and close friends have support as they grieve his loss. They lost a father, husband, and relative who shined positivity and humor within the confines of life.

For me, De la was the artsy, smart, witty, goofy, but sharp group of cousins I always wanted. Along with Tribe, they were some of the first "images of me" that I recognized in hip-hop. And I'm glad I had a chance to see the evolution of their music and their lives firsthand.

RIP Plug Two