The music world is mourning the loss of Florida rapper Lil Poppa, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 25, just days after dropping his latest track. The rapper, whose real name was Janarious Mykel Wheeler, was well-known in the Jacksonville, Florida, music scene and had made a name for himself with his unique sound and lyrical prowess.
According to the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office in Georgia, where Wheeler’s untimely death occurred, the exact cause and manner of his passing remain under investigation. This was reported by WXIA-TV, confirming that the situation is being thoroughly examined.
Touted as a rising star, Lil Poppa was pronounced dead at 11:23 a.m., as initially reported by TMZ. His sudden departure has left fans and the music industry in shock, as they remember him for his heartfelt music and contributions to rap.
Lil Poppa, born in 2000, quickly rose to prominence with his debut studio album “Blessed, I Guess,” released in 2021. This marked the beginning of a promising career that saw him sign with Yo Gotti’s Collective Music Group. Some of his most popular tracks include “Love & War,” “Mind Over Matter,” and “HAPPY TEARS,” which resonated widely with audiences.
In the years that followed, he continued to build on his early success, releasing several albums. His most recent project, “Almost Normal Again,” was released in August 2025. He supported the album with a 20-date tour across the United States, as reported by WTSP-TV, showcasing his talent to fans nationwide.
He released a number of albums; his latest in August 2025 was titled “Almost Normal Again.” He took that one on a 20-date “Almost Normal Again Tour” around the U.S., WTSP-TV noted.
Wheeler released his latest single, “Out of Town Bae,” last Friday and was slated to perform in New Orleans next month.
A trickling of tributes turned into a flood on social media throughout Wednesday as word spread.
“My little brother is gone,” tweeted Great Day Records CEO Caroline “Baroline” Diaz, who worked with Lil Poppa when he was just getting started. “Poppa I love you so much. I am so broken…”
