CeeLo Green has taken a step to preserve Atlanta’s rich Hip Hop history by announcing his purchase of the late Rico Wade‘s home, with plans to turn it into a museum.
The founding member of Goodie Mob took to Instagram to confirm the deal, which he says was worth around $1 million.
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Alongside a montage featuring various photos of himself with the late producer, CeeLo explained that “The White House” was originally bought as the Dungeon Family’s second recording home after graduating from the basement of Wade’s family home, which was affectionally known as “The Dungeon” (and later purchased by Big Boi).
“We moved into ‘the White House’ because by unanimous decision, Rico Wade was appointed commander and chief of Atlanta music culture,” he wrote. “Our success bought us all homes of our own and the White House was an empty nest. Mr. Wade decided on something more domestic to raise his new family, which was his Qwaint [sic] and reserved taste in the first place.”
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The home, CeeLo explained, subsequently fell into disrepair due to careless tenants — but the opportunity arose for him to purchase it again, and he took it.
“It was too important and invaluable to leave it be. The asking price was around 1 million, I would’ve paid more!” he continued. “I’m proud to say me and my real estate partner… my sister did that for the family! My pleasure.
“One day soon it will be a museum, archiving our rich musical history. You’ll be the first to know… and if you’re ever in Atlanta on the southside, come see us sometime and we will take good care of you, the way Father took care of us. #facts one time for Mr. Wade.”
One third of the Organized Noize production team, Rico Wade passed away aged 52 on April 13, his family confirmed.
“We are devastated by the news of the passing of our dear brother Rico Wade,” Organized Noize wrote on Instagram. “The world has lost one of the most innovative architects in music, and we have lost an invaluable friend.”
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They continued: “Rico was the cornerstone of Organized Noize and the Dungeon Family, and we will forever treasure his memory and the moments we shared, creating music as a united team. Our hearts weigh heavy with sorrow, and we kindly request privacy and empathy during this challenging period. Rico’s presence will always have a special spot in our hearts, and in the music we presented to the world.”
Future, a cousin of Rico Wade who got his big break as a member of the second generation of the Dungeon Family, also took to social media to pay tribute to his fallen relative.
Killer Mike, who recently deployed the legendary producer’s services for his Grammy-winning album, MICHAEL, also mourned Wade’s passing.
“I don’t have the words to express my deep and profound sense of loss. I am Praying for your wife and Children. I am praying for the Wade family. I am praying for us all,” he wrote on Instagram. “I deeply appreciate your acceptance into The Dungeon Family, mentorship, Friendship and Brotherhood.
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“Idk where I would be without ya’ll. This is a part of the journey. You told me “It ain’t been hard throughout the journey, it’s been a Journey” . The journey ain’t gonna be the Same Journey without U. Like U say tho Umma “Stay Down on it”……we all are. Love and Respect, Michael.”
