A HIP hop legend who had a smash hit in the 80s has sadly died.

Samantha Lawrence passed away peacefully aged 55 after a tragic cancer battle, her family confirmed today.

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The talented artist, who received her second cancer diagnosis earlier this year, was part of duo Wee Papa Girl Rappers with her sister Sandra.

Their hit song Wee Rule reached number six in the UK singles chart in 1988 and was a major hit across Europe.

A statement from the family said: “It is with great sadness that we announce that beloved sister and mother Samantha Lawrence passed away on Sunday.

“Samantha, aka TY Tim, was known for her chart success with Wee Papa Girl Rappers, a hip-hop pop duo that she founded with her older sister Sandra Lawrence, aka Total S.”

DJ Dave Pearce, who worked with the duo, said: “Sam was part of a defining and groundbreaking era of trailblazing British female rappers who against the odds conquered the UK charts alongside the likes of Cookie Crew.

“It was a really exciting time for me and always a pleasure to work with them on my Radio London hip-hop show back in the day, their positive energy was infectious.

“Always keen to experiment, they fused dancehall with reggae with Wee Rule and stepped into the house arena courtesy of Kevin Saunderson’s remix of Heat It Up.

“Through her success, Sam will have inspired others to follow their dreams. I’m glad I had the chance to remind her of that recently.

“Thoughts with her sister Sandra and daughter KeeKee. Rest In Peace.”

The sisters were born in Hammersmith, west London, and brought up in South Ealing and Acton.

They released two albums and split up in 1991 before reuniting for further work.

A fan wrote on X: “Very sad news to read. My condolences to Ty Tim’s family and friends.”

Meanwhile, another said: “A great example of Brit urban music. Rest in peace Samantha.”

The family has asked for privacy “at this devastatingly sad time”.

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