Full Breakdown
Digital Underground Member Cleetis “Clee” Mack Dies Suddenly
4/29/2026, 10:14:36 PM
Sudden Passing of Cleetis Mack
Cleetis “Clee” Mack, born Cleveland Askew, died unexpectedly. The exact date of death has not been disclosed, and his age remains unreported. A spokesperson for Digital Underground confirmed the loss to media outlets, describing it as a profound personal and artistic void.
Background of Digital Underground and Mack’s Role
Digital Underground formed in Oakland in 1987 by Shock G, Chopmaster J, and Kenny-K. The group’s 1990 single “The Humpty Dance” topped the Billboard Rap Singles chart and reached #11 on the Hot 100. Mack joined in 1993, first appearing on “Wussup Wit the Luv” alongside a young Tupac Shakur. His contributions were described as adding “warmth, loyalty, and quiet strength” to the collective.
Key Figures and Group Dynamics
Cleetis Mack (Cleveland Askew) served as vocalist from 1993 until his death. Founder Shock G (Gregory Jacobs) died in 2021 from a fentanyl, alcohol, and methamphetamine overdose. Tupac Shakur was an early collaborator whose career was launched through the group. Remaining members Money-B and Young Hump manage the group’s social-media presence.
Official Statements & Responses
A Digital Underground representative told TMZ that Mack’s death left a profound void in the group’s family and hearts. The spokesperson highlighted Mack’s humility, love, and spirited energy as traits that impacted those around him. The group has issued no further public comment.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Two accounts of the cause of death differ. One source says no cause was disclosed; another reports coroners ruled the death an accidental overdose of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and alcohol. The discrepancy remains unresolved, and further forensic details have not been released.
Verbatim Quotes
- “leaves a void in our Digital Underground family and in our hearts that can never truly be filled.” — Digital Underground spokesperson
- “He was more than a part of the movement — he was part of the soul behind it, bringing warmth, loyalty, and quiet strength to everyone around him.” — Digital Underground spokesperson
- “more than a part of the movement—he was part of the soul behind it, bringing warmth, loyalty, and quiet strength to everyone around him. He will always be remembered by his humility, love, and spirited energy, qualities that lifted those around him and made a lasting impression on all who knew him.” — Digital Underground spokesperson
Why It Matters / Impact
The group's chart success and role in launching Tupac Shakur's career underscore its lasting influence on hip-hop culture, making Mack’s death a notable loss for the genre.
What's Next
Digital Underground continues to operate its social-media channels, and the remaining members have indicated that further tributes may be forthcoming. No official plans for memorial events or releases have been announced.
