Drakeo the Ruler stabbed to death at Once Upon a Time in LA festival headlined by Snoop Dogg, 50 Cent

Drakeo the Ruler killed at LA hip-hop festival.
Drakeo the Ruler. Photo credit: Getty Images

Californian rapper Drakeo the Ruler was killed over the weekend at a music festival with the likes of Snoop Dogg, 50 Cent, Ice Cube and The Game on its lineup.

The 28-year-old, real name Darrell Caldwell, died after reportedly being stabbed during a large fight that broke out backstage at the Once Upon a Time in LA festival on Saturday night (local time).

Drakeo the Ruler has a little over 1.5 million monthly listeners on Spotify, where his biggest track is 'Talk to Me'. He was described by the LA Times as "the most original West Coast stylist in decades" and Pitchfork rated his Thank You For Using GTL as "likely the greatest rap album ever recorded from jail".

The brawl broke out at around 8:30pm and TMZ says it has reports Drakeo the Ruler was rushed to hospital after suffering a stab wound to the neck.

His publicist has confirmed his death.

The concert was shut down after Drakeo the Ruler was taken away by paramedics with promoter Live Nation saying: "Out of respect for those involved and in co-ordination with local authorities, artists and organisers decided not to move forward with remaining sets so the festival was ended an hour early."

Snoop Dogg took to Twitter some hours later to pay respects.

"I'm saddened by the events that took place," wrote the 'Gin & Juice' hitmaker.

"My condolences go out to the family and loved ones of Drakeo the Ruler. I'm not with anything negative and as one of the many performers, I was there to spread positive vibes only to my city of LA. 

"Last night I was in my dressing room when I was informed about the incident and chose to immediately leave the festival grounds. My prayers go out to everyone affected by tragedy. I'M PRAYING FOR PEACE IN HIP-HOP."

Fellow rapper Drake also posted a message on his Instagram Story stating: "Nah man this shit ain't right for real wtf are we doing. Always picked my spirit up with your energy, RIP Drakeo."

Drake posts Instagram tribute to slain rapper Drakeo the Ruler.
Drake's tribute to Drakeo the Ruler. Photo credit: Instagram/Drake