Rapper Nate Dogg Dies at 41

Nate Dogg, the voice behind many of hip-hop's most infectious hooks, has died. He was 41.
He died Tuesday, his family told the Press Telegram of his native Long Beach, Calif. A cause of death was not given, but he had suffered two strokes in 2007 and 2008.

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Rapper/collaborator Warren G tweeted Sunday that Nate was "in therapy" after his two strokes, adding: "Thanks again for your support".Born Nathaniel Dwayne Hale, Nate began singing as a child in church before forming the rap trio 213 with Snoop Dogg and Warren G in 1991. A year later, he made his debut on Dr. Dre's landmark album The Chronic and followed that up with a breakthrough performance alongside Warren G on the classic hip-hop track "Regulate." The tune earned a Grammy nomination; Nate would go on to receive three more.Armed with a smooth baritone, Nate sang hooks on Snoop's debut Doggystyle and frequently collaborated with Tupac, most notably on "How Long Will They Mourn Me." He would go on to release four albums of his own, including his debut G-Funk Classics, Vol. 1 & 2 and the highly successful Music & Me, led by the hit single "I Got Love."

Watch the music video for "I Got Love"

He also contributed his trademark stylish hooks to records by Ludacris, Eminem, 50 Cent and others."We lost a true legend n hip hop n rnb. One of my best friends n a brother to me since 1986," Snoop Dogg wrote in a series of tweets. "I love u buddy luv. U will always b wit me 4ever n a day ... u put yo stamp on evrybdy u ever didit wit."He 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 ... all doggs go to heaven ...""There is a certain void in hip hop's heart that can never be filled," Ludacris tweeted. "Glad we got to make history together."

Watch the music video for "Regulate" below: