A statement shared Wednesday confirmed the death of Lord Sear, the veteran DJ, rapper, and radio host whose voice became a familiar part of hip-hop media for decades. He was 52.
The announcement described him as more than a radio personality, pointing to a career that stretched from New York’s underground rap scene to a long run on Shade 45, the SiriusXM channel tied to Eminem. No cause of death was disclosed.
Born Steve Watson, Lord Sear built his reputation through several corners of hip-hop. He worked alongside Kurious early in his career, became part of the influential Stretch Armstrong and Bobbito radio era, and later joined Eminem on the Anger Management Tour. Over time, he became one of the defining personalities at Shade 45, where he spent more than 20 years on air.
His work also reached beyond radio. Lord Sear recorded music, collaborated with artists across the scene, and contributed voice work to the Grand Theft Auto series. Following the news, tributes from artists, broadcasters, and fans quickly spread across social media.