Professor X, member of X-Clan and founder of the grassroots organization BlackWatch, died over the weekend at a New York Area Hospital. The rapper, whose real name was Lumumba Carson, died from complications due to meningitis, a bacterial or viral infection that overtakes the body's natural immune system. The New York native and son of Civil Rights pioneer Sonny Carson preached Black Nationalist philosophy in his rhymes and encouraged black pride and cultural awareness. His efforts lead him to found the BlackWatch Committee, an organization for Black Muslims. He released two solo albums, including Years Of The 9, On The Blackhand Side in 1991 and a post X-clan effort, Puss 'N Boots (The Struggle Continues...) in 1993. As a member of X-Clan, the group stood as a stark contrast to the west-coast gangsta rap that reigned at the time. The group, famous for their political satires and catch phrases, released a pair or highly praised albums in the early '90s, including Blackwards in 1990 and Xodus in 1992. The group disbanded shortly after their second album. X-Clan announced a comeback in December 2005, but it's unknown whether Professor X was to join the reunion. A wake for Professor X is planned in Brooklyn for March 23.
