Sad news here on the West Coast tonight as Nathaniel Hale, AKA Nate Dogg, has passed away. According to the Long Beach Press Telegram, Nate’s family announced his passing late Tuesday night. Word has already hit hard particularly Snoop Dogg who grew up with Hale.

“We lost a true legend n hip hop n rnb” Snoop tweeted. “One of my best friends n a brother to me since 1986 when I was a sophomore at poly high where we met. I love u buddy luv. U will always b wit me 4ever n a day u put the g n g funk u put the 1 n 213 n u put yo stamp on evrybdy u ever didit wit.”

“all doggs go to heaven yo homie n baby brotha bigg snoopdogg!!” Snoop continued. “I miss u cuzz I am so sad but so happy I got to grow up wit u and I will c u again n heaven cuz u know d slogan.”

No one could sing the R&B or hip-hop track hook the way Nate could. This is a sad day for the G-Funk Era. WoooHa sends our condolences. No official word on cause of death but Nate did fight off health issues including two previous strokes.