Robbie Pardlo of Metropolis Excessive died in Willingboro with household by his aspect, abandoning a legacy of early 2000s R&B and Hip-Hop storytelling.
Robbie Pardlo, the voice behind Metropolis Excessive’s chart-topping anthem “What Would You Do?” died Tuesday (July 17) at age 46 in Willingboro, New Jersey, surrounded by family members.
The reason for loss of life has not been formally disclosed. Whereas some experiences have pointed to coronary heart failure, his household has not confirmed any particulars.
Pardlo rose to fame within the early 2000s as one-third of Metropolis Excessive alongside Claudette Ortiz and Ryan Toby.
Their debut single “What Would You Do?” turned a cultural staple, peaking at No. 8 on the Billboard Sizzling 100 and incomes a Grammy nomination for Finest R&B Efficiency by a Duo or Group in 2002.
Their follow-up hit “Caramel” additionally cracked the High 20 and featured a remix with rapper Eve.
After the group disbanded, Pardlo continued working in music. He carried out with the group First Take and collaborated with artists like Whitney Houston and Lil Kim.
When Lil’ Kim introduced out Metropolis Excessive at Return Of The Queen Tour. RIP to Robbie Pardlo 🕊️ pic.twitter.com/MMgvNElBAL
— LIL KIM VIDEOS (@LilKimVideos2) July 18, 2025
A consultant for the singer confirmed his passing to TMZ, including that the household is planning memorial providers and public tributes, with particulars to be introduced quickly.
Pardlo is survived by his spouse, Anika, their two youngsters, Lyric and Chord-Andrew, his mom, Marion and his brother, Gregory Pardlo—a Pulitzer Prize-winning poet.
Identified for his love of storytelling by music, Pardlo helped form a second in early 2000s R&B and Hip-Hop that also resonates. Metropolis Excessive’s music tackled real-life points with honesty and emotion, and their lone album stays a time capsule of that period.
As of now, Ortiz, Toby and Wyclef Jean—who signed the group to his Booga Basement label—haven’t made public statements.
Metropolis Excessive’s solely album, launched in Might 2001, was praised for its uncooked lyrics and genre-blending sound. “What Would You Do?” initially appeared on the 1999 movie “Life” soundtrack earlier than changing into a breakout hit.
Memorial particulars are anticipated to be shared by the household within the coming days.
AllhipHop extends condolences to Pardlo’s household and family members.
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