Gene “Groove” Allen, a rapper, actor, and member of the hip-hop collective Groove B. Chill, has passed away at the age of 63. His family has confirmed that he died unexpectedly at his residence on Wednesday.
Allen gained prominence for his performances in House Party (1990), Boomerang (1992), and What’s Love Got to Do With It? (1993). Following his career in film, he transitioned to voiceover work and radio.
Originally hailing from the Bronx and recognized as a pioneer of hip-hop, Allen had been actively promoting an upcoming EP along with the 2025 House Party Immersive Tour prior to his passing.
Tributes flooded in from the music community, featuring notable figures such as Eric B. and DJ Premier. Just days before his death, Allen’s final Instagram post depicted him singing at a party, accompanied by the caption, “I ain’t playin’.”
