Gene “Groove” Allen — rapper, actor, and member of the hip-hop group Groove B. Chill — has died at age 63. His family confirmed he passed away unexpectedly at home on Wednesday.
Allen was best known for his roles in House Party (1990), Boomerang (1992), and What’s Love Got to Do With It? (1993). After his film career, he worked in voiceovers and radio.
Originally from the Bronx and considered a hip-hop pioneer, Allen had been promoting an upcoming EP and the 2025 House Party Immersive Tour before his death.
Tributes poured in from the music world, including Eric B. and DJ Premier. Allen’s last Instagram post, just days before his passing, showed him singing at a party with the caption, “I ain’t playin’.”
He would have celebrated his birthday on February 26.
