Rapper Lil Poppa Dies at 25

Janarious Wheeler, the American rapper known professionally as Lil Poppa, has died at the age of 25.

According to reports, his death was confirmed by the Fulton County Medical Examiner in Georgia on Wednesday, February 18, at approximately 11:20 a.m. local time. Authorities said the cause of death remains under investigation.

Just days before his passing, Lil Poppa released a new single titled Out of Town Bae on February 13. He had also been scheduled to perform in New Orleans in March.

Over the course of his career, Lil Poppa became affiliated with Collective Music Group, the label founded by Yo Gotti, and home to artists including GloRilla. His 2021 track Love & War emerged as one of his most recognized songs, appearing on his project Blessed, I Guess.

In Love & War, he reflected on vulnerability and emotional conflict, balancing affection with the pressures and dangers surrounding him. It was the kind of introspective street rap that resonated with listeners who felt the tension between ambition, loyalty, and survival.