Mack Maine: Rapper and Young Money President Loses Son
- On what should have been a day of celebration, Mack Maine shared the sudden loss of his 20-year-old son, Zeke
- Marking both his birthday and the anniversary of his own father’s passing, the rapper reflected on the unbreakable bond he shared with his son
- The emotional tribute, paired with cherished photos and heartfelt messages, left fans and fellow artistes stunned
Mack Maine, the longtime president of Lil Wayne’s Young Money Entertainment label, is grieving the tragic loss of his 20-year-old son, Isaiah, affectionately known as Zeke.

Source: Instagram
The New Orleans rapper announced Zeke’s death, which occurred on Wednesday, July 16, via a heartfelt Instagram post.
In the message shared on what is both his birthday and the anniversary of his own father's death, Mack, real name Jermaine Anthony Preyan, said he’s still grappling with the devastating reality.
“I’m still in shock and still processing the fact that he’s gone. Still confused, still questioning life and why my child and not me,” he wrote.
What did Mack Maine say about son?
He described Zeke as his greatest inspiration and the reason he got out of bed every morning, and expressed how fatherhood changed his life.
“You were my SONshine. Your soul was made of innocence, and your heart was pure.”
Mack posted a collection of cherished memories, including photos of Zeke at various life stages, playing instruments, celebrating graduations, relaxing on the beach, and even standing behind a studio microphone, hinting at a budding musical passion.
“Zeke, I thank you for granting me one of the greatest gifts I’ve ever received — fatherhood. The experience and bond you and I shared gave me purpose. You’ll always be my Prince,” Mack wrote.
Mack said he needed Zeke more than ever and asked him to watch over him from the other side.
The rapper further urged everyone to hold their loved ones close.
“Hug the ones you love and squeeze them tight,” he said. “If they’re not near, call them. If they’re gone, remember the good times or scroll through photos and videos.”
What happened to Mack Maine's son?
The grieving father said Zeke died following a seizure at his home in California.
Support poured in from fellow artists and fans including Nicki Minaj, 2 Chainz and Tyga.
Here are some condolence messages from other celebrities and fans:
Itsreginaecarter:
“I love you so much. Praying for you!”
Laurenlondon:
“We love you, brother, and are holding you up in prayer.”
Monicadenise:
“Praying for you and the entire family.”
Jayelectronica:
“May Allah be pleased with our brother and may He comfort and guide you all during this time. Love you, bro.”
Did Kenyan forex trader King David lose son?
In other news, popular forex trader King David's second-born son, Mateo Kariuki, died on Sunday, July 20, while vacationing with family.
The little boy drowned in a swimming pool just a month after celebrating his first birthday.
David and his wife penned tearjerking messages remembering their late son. The lovebirds' son was buried in an emotional ceremony in Nyeri county on July 25.

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The forex trader and his family have been trying to be strong as they process grief.
King David has been sharing videos showing fans how trading is done and how much he makes, to inspire those interested in it.
"You decide to take a break from trading...Then you hear a voice say:“Get up and face that challenge , whatever it is.” 💔🔥. I’ve been through pain most people can’t even imagine. I had every reason to quit… but purpose pulled me back. I’m not just trading for money anymore, I’m trading for legacy. For my son. For my family. For everyone watching and believing. So I wiped my tears…Opened the chats, and faced the market, like a warrior with a scarred heart and unshakable faith," said David.
How was rapper killed alongside daughter?

Source: Instagram
In other news, TUKO.co.ke reported that American rapper G$ Lil Ronnie and his 5-year-old daughter were tragically shot dead while at a carwash in Fort Worth, Texas.
Surveillance footage showed gunmen ambushing them in broad daylight, chasing Ronnie before fatally shooting him.
Police confirmed the attack appeared targeted and have issued a warrant for one of the suspects involved.
Caren Nyota, HoD Entertainment, added details on Kenyan forex trader King David losing son.
Proofreading by Mercy Nyambura, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke