Foolio, born Charles Jones II, was an emerging voice in the American hip-hop scene. Known for his emotionally charged lyrics and raw storytelling, Foolio’s music resonated deeply with listeners who recognized his pain, struggle, and ambition. Like many young rappers rising from difficult environments, Foolio used music not just as a creative outlet, but as a survival mechanism. Over the years, he developed a strong following, releasing multiple projects and collaborating with artists in the drill and trap genres.
As of 2025, questions continue to circulate online regarding Foolio’s life status. Fans and followers frequently ask, “Is Foolio still alive?” The short and truthful answer is no. Foolio tragically lost his life in a targeted shooting in June 2024, shortly after celebrating his 26th birthday. This article offers a factual and comprehensive update on his life, health, career, and legacy, while also addressing the deeper cultural impact his story carries.
Early Life and Musical Journey
Charles Jones II was born on June 21, 1998, in Jacksonville, Florida, a city known for both its thriving local rap scene and its violent rivalries. Raised in the city’s Moncrief neighborhood, Foolio faced numerous hardships from a young age. His father was a victim of gun violence in 2011, an event that deeply affected him and would later feature prominently in his lyrical themes.
Foolio began rapping seriously around the age of 17. His earliest tracks gained attention on social media platforms and YouTube, where he quickly built a following thanks to his distinct voice, raw delivery, and commitment to storytelling. Tracks like Crooks, Slide, and Voodoo highlighted his natural talent and positioned him as a voice of the streets.
By 2022, Foolio had solidified his place as one of Jacksonville’s most recognized rap artists. His projects, including Love Me Like I’m Dead (2021), Life of Me (2022), and Final Destination (2023), earned millions of streams and brought him a national audience. He was also known for his unfiltered lyrics, which often included references to real-life street incidents, rivalries, and loss—a style that, while captivating, also placed him in the center of controversy and danger.
Confirmation of His Death in 2024
Despite recurring internet speculation, it is confirmed that Foolio is not alive as of 2025. He passed away on June 23, 2024, just two days after celebrating his 26th birthday.
The tragic incident occurred in Tampa, Florida, where Foolio had rented an Airbnb to host a birthday celebration. Due to noise complaints and overcrowding, police intervened and shut the party down. Foolio and his entourage then moved to a nearby Holiday Inn hotel, intending to continue the celebration in a more controlled environment.
In the early morning hours, Foolio was ambushed in the hotel parking lot. Multiple assailants opened fire, and Foolio sustained fatal gunshot wounds. Three others were injured during the shooting. Investigators believe the attack was targeted and gang-related. By late 2024, authorities had arrested three individuals in connection with the incident. These arrests further supported the theory that the attack was premeditated and not random.
This violent and untimely end added Foolio to a growing list of young hip-hop artists whose lives were cut short due to gun violence—a crisis that continues to impact the music industry and urban communities across the United States.
Foolio’s Final Projects and Lasting Impact
Just months before his death, Foolio released a project titled Resurrection in early 2024. The album was praised for its emotional depth and vulnerability. Many fans and critics viewed it as a sign of maturity and artistic evolution. The project featured introspective tracks where Foolio discussed the dangers of fame, the psychological toll of street life, and his desire to rise above the violence that had surrounded him.
Following his passing, Resurrection gained increased attention, becoming a posthumous milestone in his career. Tributes poured in from fellow artists, producers, and fans who had admired Foolio’s authenticity and resilience. His label and management team later released a deluxe edition of the album, with additional unreleased tracks that Foolio had recorded in the months leading up to his death.
Foolio’s music, while often controversial, opened conversations about trauma, loss, mental health, and the social conditions facing young Black men in America’s inner cities. His ability to turn pain into poetry set him apart in a genre that often glorifies toughness at the expense of vulnerability.
The Broader Discussion: Gun Violence in Hip-Hop
Foolio’s death reignited urgent discussions around the ongoing issue of gun violence in hip-hop culture. In recent years, the industry has seen a disturbing number of rappers die young—often due to disputes rooted in real-life conflicts that are amplified through music and social media.
While Foolio was aware of the risks he faced, his music was not created to promote violence. Rather, it was an artistic reflection of his lived experiences. He once stated in an interview that he didn’t rap to instigate others, but to tell the truth as he saw it.
His death served as a grim reminder of the fine line many young artists walk between authenticity and danger. Industry executives, media outlets, and community leaders have since renewed their calls for artists to receive better protection, support systems, and guidance—both creatively and personally.
Family and Fan Response
In the aftermath of his death, Foolio’s family released a public statement asking for privacy and peace. They described him as a loving son, brother, and friend who had been working hard to rise above his past. Friends and collaborators held candlelight vigils in Jacksonville and Tampa, while fans shared tributes online, posting lyrics, photos, and video clips that celebrated his artistry and spirit.
Foolio’s fans created digital memorials and shared stories about how his music helped them through tough times. Many expressed sadness that he would not have the opportunity to reach his full potential or see the long-term impact of his work.
His official YouTube channel and music profiles continue to attract views and new listeners. His fan base, though grieving, remains committed to preserving and promoting his legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Foolio still alive in 2025?
No, Foolio passed away on June 23, 2024, due to a targeted shooting in Tampa, Florida.
How old was Foolio when he died?
He was 26 years old, having just celebrated his birthday two days prior.
What caused Foolio’s death?
He was shot and killed during an ambush outside a hotel. Police have linked the incident to gang-related motives.
What was his last music release?
His final project was Resurrection (2024), which gained significant recognition after his death.
What is Foolio’s legacy?
Foolio is remembered for his raw lyrical honesty, emotional depth, and his voice as a product of and commentator on his environment.
Conclusion
Foolio is no longer with us, but his voice, music, and message continue to echo throughout the hip-hop community. His life was marked by adversity, but also by resilience and creative brilliance. While his journey was tragically cut short, the emotional impact of his work will endure for years to come.
As fans reflect on his story, it is clear that Foolio leaves behind more than music—he leaves behind a cautionary tale, a cultural footprint, and a reminder of the urgent need for change in the communities that raise, shape, and often endanger their brightest voices.