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Major AceOne of the founders of the grime genre
Country:
 USA |
Content:
- Luke Monero, aka Major Ace, Dies After Brain Tumour Battle
- The Birth of Grime
- Legacy and Collaborations
- Pay As U Go Cartel and Beyond
- Later Career and Illness
- Tributes and Legacy
Luke Monero, aka Major Ace, Dies After Brain Tumour Battle
Early Life and Career BeginningsBorn Luke Monero, Major Ace rose to prominence as a grime pioneer. He co-founded the influential Pay As U Go Cartel, which played a pivotal role in shaping the British garage genre.
The Birth of Grime
Grime, a fusion of hip-hop and garage, emerged in East London in the early 2000s. Major Ace and Pay As U Go Cartel were among the first artists to define the sound, along with Lethal Bizzle, Tinchy Stryder, and Wretch 32.
Legacy and Collaborations
Major Ace's contributions to grime earned him widespread respect. Wretch 32 credited him with "paving the way." MC Chipmunk hailed him as an inspiration for his own music career.
Pay As U Go Cartel and Beyond
Pay As U Go Cartel, which released the top 20 hit "Champagne Dance" in 2002, featured members Wiley, DJ Target, Flow Dan, and DJ Slimzee. After the group disbanded in 2002, Wiley went on to form Roll Deep, which included Dizzee Rascal, Skepta, and Jme.
Later Career and Illness
Major Ace formed a new grime group, East Connection, with former Pay As U Go Cartel members Maxwell D and Gods Gift. In 2017, his brother Cass announced on Instagram that Ace had been battling a brain tumour for three years.
Tributes and Legacy
Following Major Ace's passing, the grime community and beyond paid tribute to his contributions. Wretch 32 praised his "soul" and "character." Cass expressed pride in his brother's achievements: "He achieved so much in his short life."
Major Ace's legacy continues to inspire and shape the UK grime scene. His influence and innovations remain a testament to his enduring impact on the genre.
