The hip hop community is mourning the death of Jonathan Hovain Hylton, a veteran music manager and label owner who worked with some of the biggest names in the industry. Hylton, who was also known as Hovain, passed away on Friday, November 25, 2022, at his home in Brooklyn. He was 34 years old.
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A Beloved and Devoted Father, Husband, Son, and Brother
Hovain’s death was confirmed by a statement shared on his official Twitter page, which read:
It is with deep regret that we message to all family, friends, and colleagues that Jonathan ‘Hovain’ Hylton passed away while at his home on Friday. He was a beloved and devoted father, husband, son, brother, and a proud Brooklyn representative.
We’d like to thank all of his close friends for all of the love and support that you have shown during this difficult time. We ask that you all continue to keep his family in your prayers and respect their privacy at this time.
The statement did not reveal the cause of death of Hovain, who leaves behind his wife and two children. According to US Day News, some sources claimed that he died of an overdose, but this has not been officially confirmed.
A Pillar of New York Hip Hop and Beyond
Hovain was a respected figure in the hip hop scene, having collaborated with a wide range of artists, such as Cam’Ron, Jim Jones, Styles P, Lloyd Banks, T-Pain, Joey Bada$$, Troy Ave, YFN Lucci, Flipp Dinero, Rob Markman, and many more. He was the president of management at Cinematic Music Group and the founder of his own management company, Hovain Hylton Management.
Hovain was known for his savvy business skills and his ability to secure lucrative deals for his clients. He was responsible for arranging the first New York performances of Dom Kennedy, Nipsey Hussle, and Wiz Khalifa. He also worked with brands like Adidas, Avion Tequila, Sean John, and others.
Hovain’s impact on the hip hop culture was evident by the outpouring of tributes from his peers and fans. DJ Young Guru, who was managed by Hovain, wrote on Instagram:
I have no words. I loved this man. He was more than my manager he was my brother. I swear this is too much. RIP my brother [six broken heart emojis] @hovain you were special.
DJ A-Trak called Hovain “a pillar of New York hip hop” on Twitter:
Can’t believe Hovain passed, wtf. He was one of the good ones. Everyone loved him. A pillar of New York hip hop, of hip hop in general, just a good guy. Damn.
Other artists who expressed their condolences included Fabolous, Jadakiss, Dave East, Smoke DZA, Statik Selektah, DJ Envy, DJ Drama, DJ Clue, and more.
A Legacy That Will Live On
Hovain’s death is a tragic loss for the hip hop community and for everyone who knew him personally. He was a visionary who helped shape the careers of many artists and influenced the culture with his passion and professionalism. His legacy will live on through his family, friends, colleagues, and clients.
Rest in peace, Hovain. You will be missed.
