Lichelle Marie Laws, known in the rap world as Boss (BO$$), and one the first female MC’s signed to Def Jam, has passed away.

She was 54.

Bun B broke the news of her death when the Texas rapper shared his condolences on his Instagram.

 “Rest in peace to my big sis Lichelle Laws AKA Boss. One of the best female MCs and a dear friend,” wrote B in the caption of a photo of Boss flipping up a pair of birds. “Give Rick Royal a hug for me. Long Live The Org!”

 Boss, notably the first female rapper signed by Def Jam, made her debut with the album "Born Gangstaz" in 1993. Her leading single, "Deeper," not only topped the rap charts but also highlighted her distinctive gruff style and hardcore delivery. Supported by notable producers including Erick Sermon and the late Jam Master Jay, she quickly garnered a strong fan base. Despite her initial success, when it came to albums, Boss was a one and done. (But it was a good one!!!)

Although considered a West Coast rapper, Boss was born in Detroit.

In the mid-90s, she moved to Houston and has lived there since.

Sadly, she was diagnosed with and faced kidney failure in 2011 and had a stroke in 2017.

Details on her cause of death are currently unknown.