Who was Young Noble? Career, family, and more explored as Outlawz member dies by suicide at 47

Rufus Lee Cooper III, better known as Young Noble, died on July 4, 2025, at the age of 47. He was a rapper and belonged to the hip-hop group created by Tupac Shakur called Outlawz. His case was declared suicide by gunshot.

He joined the Outlawz in 1996, only a couple of months before Tupac was killed. Over the years, he emerged as one of the most influential artists in propagating Tupac's style and message. He has even published individual albums and duet records with other people.

His demise has left a trail of dismay and shock on many individuals in the hip-hop fraternity. Artists and his fan base have discussed his music and his devotion to Tupac and increased mental awareness in the music industry.

How did Young Noble begin his music career?

Young Noble was born on March 21, 1978, in Sierra Madre, California. He grew up in Pasadena, California, and then relocated to Montclair, New Jersey. During his teenage years, he went back to California to reside with his sister. His life was spent between the East and West Coasts in his formative years, exposing him to various music cultures.

He was introduced to music at a young age. He was personally signed to the Outlawz in early 1996 by Tupac Shakur. He was thus the final official member of the group to be added before Tupac died. He first appeared with the group on Tupac's posthumous effort The Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory.

His lyrics on songs such as "Hail Mary," "Bomb First," and "Life of an Outlaw" brought him to the attention of a large audience. These tracks were included in Tupac's most iconic work. Noble's musical style was uncomplicated and mostly centered on everyday hardships.

What did Young Noble do after Tupac’s death?

Following Tupac's death in 1996, Young Noble remained with the Outlawz. He assisted in continuing the group's vision of articulating stories of street life, injustice, and allegiance. In 1999, he was featured on Still I Rise, a collaborative album by Tupac and the Outlawz.

Later, he embarked on a solo career. His debut solo album Noble Justice was released in 2002. In the following two decades, he brought out various albums such as Son of God, Powerful, and 3rd Eye View. He collaborated with other musicians as well, including Lil' Flip.

Aside from music, he was also engaged in operating Outlawz Records. He was an important member of 1NATION ENT, where he aimed to establish a platform for independent artists. Noble also made appearances in documentaries narrating the life of Tupac and the Outlawz.

What is known about Young Noble’s personal life?

Young Noble's personal life was not made public. Little information about his family, spouse, or kids is available in the public domain. The only thing known is that he had numerous personal issues throughout his life, such as severe illness.

He survived a heart attack in 2021. Subsequently, he addressed fans regarding the need to take care of their health. He also expressed gratitude towards people who stood by him while he was recovering. The incident proved to be a turning point and led him to become more outspoken regarding health and well-being.

His suicide has brought attention to the issues of mental health within the music industry. Outlawz colleague E.D.I. Mean confirmed the news and requested that Noble's family be granted privacy. He also emphasized that there needs to be more awareness about mental health care.

Young Noble was involved in hip-hop for almost three decades. From being chosen personally by Tupac to creating his own independent career, everything about him left an impression on most. His songs were based on people's actual lives from hard-knock neighborhoods.

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Edited by Deebakar