Celebration of Life: Remembering Dequantes Devontay Lamar (Rich Homie Quan)

Sunrise October 4, 1989 – Sunset September 5, 2024

On a bright, somber morning in Atlanta, the city gathered to pay tribute to one of its own, a son of the South, and a pioneer in modern Southern hip-hop—Dequantes Devontay Lamar, known to the world as Rich Homie Quan. The celebration of life service for the beloved rapper took place at World Changes Church located in College Park

where family, friends, and fans came together to remember the man behind the music. The air was filled with both sorrow and the unmistakable Atlanta spirit that Quan carried with him throughout his career.

A Life of Resilience and Determination

Born on October 4, 1989, in Atlanta, Rich Homie Quan rose to prominence in a city known for producing hip-hop giants. Quan’s early life was one of challenges and potential. He excelled in school, particularly in literature and creative writing, and showed promise as a baseball player during his time at Ronald McNair Senior High School. His skills on the field as a center fielder earned him a scholarship offer from Fort Valley State University. However, financial hardships forced him to leave after just two weeks, marking a pivotal turning point in his life.

After a series of personal struggles, including a 15-month stint in jail, Quan found solace in music. It was during these tough times that he discovered his true passion and began pursuing music with fervor. “I never saw myself going this far with music. Music was just a hobby at first,” he once shared. Upon his release from jail, he took his music seriously, and his dreams began to unfold.

An Iconic Career Born in Atlanta

Rich Homie Quan’s influence on the Atlanta music scene—and the world—cannot be overstated. From the moment he burst onto the scene in 2011, his sound was unique and infectious. His breakout single, “Type of Way” in 2013, rocketed him to mainstream success, peaking at number 50 on the Billboard Hot 100. Rolling Stone later named his mixtape Still Goin’ In (Reloaded) as one of the best mixtapes of 2013.

Atlanta has always been a breeding ground for innovative rap music, and Quan was no exception. Alongside other notable Atlanta artists such as Young Thug and Future, Quan created a melodic yet gritty style that resonated deeply with audiences. His collaboration with Young Thug under Cash Money Records’ Rich Gang project, including the hit single “Lifestyle”, showcased his versatility and expanded his fan base.

His 2015 single “Flex (Ooh, Ooh, Ooh)” cemented his place in the rap game, reaching number 26 on the Billboard Hot 100. Throughout his career, Quan was known for blending hard-hitting lyricism with catchy, melodic flows—a reflection of his deep connection to the city’s “Dirty South” music, influenced by icons like Jeezy, Gucci Mane, and Lil Wayne.

A Legacy of Heart and Hustle

Quan’s journey to stardom was far from easy, and that’s part of what made him so relatable to fans. From his humble beginnings in Atlanta, his struggles with the law, and the sacrifices he made to pursue his dream, Quan’s life was a testament to perseverance. His ability to turn adversity into opportunity was inspiring. In an interview with XXL, he once remarked, “After I got out of jail, I started to take it more serious, and that’s when my dream came true.”

During the service, his closest family members and friends reflected on his drive and dedication to his craft. Tributes from fellow artists flooded in, noting a genuine soul who never forgot where he came from.

The music world mourns the loss of a star gone too soon, but the legacy of Rich Homie Quan will live on in his timeless music, which continues to inspire and uplift. Atlanta will forever remember him as one of its brightest stars.

A Lasting Impact on Hip-Hop

As the service drew to a close, a montage of Quan’s career highlights played on the big screen. From his energetic performances to his time spent connecting with fans, it was clear that he left an indelible mark on those around him. The room reverberated with his tracks, reminding everyone that though his physical presence is gone, his voice and spirit will continue to influence generations of artists to come.

Rich Homie Quan’s passing marks the end of an era for Southern rap, but his impact will be remembered as part of the golden age of Atlanta hip-hop. His story is a reminder of the power of resilience, hustle, and the unyielding pursuit of one’s dreams.