Late yesterday (March 22), founding A Tribe Called Quest member Phife Dawg passed away. The man born Malik Taylor was 45 years old. News came from friends and collaborators of the Queens, New York MC throughout his more than 26 years of songwriting, performing, and representing A.T.C.Q.

Today (March 23), Phife’s manager, on behalf of his family, have released a statement. Within, they confirmed that it was Taylor’s longtime battle with diabetes that was the cause of his untimely death.

“We regret to share the news that on Tuesday March 22, 2016, Malik has passed away due to complications resulting from diabetes.

Malik was our loving husband, father, brother and friend. We love him dearly. How he impacted all our lives will never be forgotten. His love for music and sports was only surpassed by his love of God and family.”

The artist’s manager, Dion Liverpool, also released a statement:

“While I mourn the loss of my best friend and brother, I also will celebrate his incredible life and contribution to many people’s ears across the world. Even with all his success, I have never met a person as humble as he. He taught me that maintaining a positive attitude and outlook can conquer anything. Now my brother is resting in greatness. I’m honored to have crossed paths with him. Riddim Kidz 4eva.”

Riddim Kidz is Phife Dawg’s production company. Since 1990, Phife worked on all five A Tribe Called Quest albums, and participated in 2015’s 25th anniversary of People’s Instinctive Travels and Paths Of Rhythm. Additionally, he released his lone solo effort, Ventilation: Da LP in 2000, featuring production by Hi-Tek, Pete Rock, and the late J Dilla.

Related: Phife Dawg From A Tribe Called Quest Passes Away At Age 45