06/16/2026
This was difficult to write.
Yesterday’s news was extremely devastating as we learned of the passing of a Most Beloved Elder in our Community.
In the Queens Community, and Hip Hop and Cultural Arts Community on a whole.
Rest In Power
Rest In Peace
Rest in Poetry
Many may know Danny as the Big Brother of Russell Simmons and Run of , but respectfully….
Danny Simmons is all of our Big Brother,
Hes Hip Hops Big Brother!!
I was blessed to be raised in the close proximity of such a great influential Talent.
From being a 12 year old kid bringing water to the podium during Danny’s first book release party for his book of poetry “ Songs of Kali”.
I also can remember one of, if not his first Art Exhibit at The Afrikan Poetry Theatre.
Danny was By far one of The Coolest, Flyest OG’s and Unks we know.
Fresh to Def (pun intended).
Hollis Crew lost a General.
The Ancestors gained a Warrior.
The love this man had for African Culture and Art is inspirational and he was an inspiration to me and my friends.
He helped take Poetry to a National and International Stage.
From the sparsley lit stage of The A.P.T. to Def Poetry Jam.
Danny your work will live forever.
You will never be forgotten.
You are apart of our history.
We give reverence.
Today Jamaica Queens Mourns..
Ase’ O
Video Archive Provided By:
Bob McNeil
