Rising New Orleans Bounce Music Star Nicky Da B Has Passed Away

It is with heavy hearts that we pass along the sad news that rising New Orleans bounce artist Nicky Da B has passed away at age 24.

The news initially broke on social media with many New Orleans artists and DJs—including fellow bounce icon Big Freedia—reporting the sad news of the young bounce star's passing. We also received the news from our inside sources that Nicky—real name Nickesse Toney—passed away after battling a brief illness, which was then confirmed by his manager Rusty Lazer via Facebook.

Nicky Da B gained instant global recognition after collaborating on the party banging track, 'Express Yourself' with famed producer Diplo.

Not only would it be one of Diplo's career-defining tracks, it would also become instrumental in taking bounce music from the underground duck-offs of New Orleans to the suburbs of middle America and headlining stages at the biggest festivals in the world.

You can credit Nicky Da B and his infectious fast-paced vocal delivery for every girl you've ever seen twerking on a wall (or a handstand) outside the city limits of New Orleans.

In addition to being at the forefront of bounce music's new generation, his unique artistic vision was apparent in all of his videos and live shows—transcending race, sexuality and anything else that threatened to stand in the way of Nicky Da B.

Basically, what I'm saying is that without Nicky Da B, Miley Cyrus would still be Hannah Montana.

I'll never forget the Lundi Gras show he put on for us back in 2012, right before 'Express Yourself' blew up. His energy could bring the most boring room to it's feet, and his selfless personality made him one of the coolest artists I have ever had the pleasure to work with.

I ran across this drop that he did for me. All I did was send the flyer to him (below) and told him to say a little something to get people to come out to the show.

Even though it was a simple radio drop, Nicky just had to put his own spin on it. This is what he sent me:

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Nicky's family and friends as we offer our deepest condolences during this difficult time. We will continue to celebrate Nicky Da B through his music and remember him for the joy he brought to world in his short time on this earth.