Janarious Mykel Wheeler, the rapper known to fans as Lil Poppa, has died in Georgia at the age of 25.
Officials in Fulton County confirmed that Wheeler was pronounced dead Wednesday morning. Authorities have not yet determined the manner or cause of death, and the case remains under investigation. No additional details about the circumstances have been released.
Lil Poppa built a devoted following through emotionally candid storytelling and melodic rap delivery that blended street narratives with reflective vulnerability. Tracks such as Love and War and Purple Hearts showcased his ability to balance grit with introspection, earning him respect within the hip hop community.
In August, he released Almost Normal Again, an album that continued to refine his sound and expand his reach. Just last week, he dropped a new single titled Out of Town Bae, marking what would become his final release.
At 25, Wheeler’s career was still in motion, with new music arriving and momentum building. His sudden death leaves fans and collaborators waiting for answers while remembering an artist whose voice resonated with raw honesty and evolving promise.