Veteran DJ and radio personality Lord Sear, a core member of the iconic Stretch Armstrong and Bobbito Show, has passed away at 53. A cause of death has not been revealed at this time.
A Legacy in Hip-Hop Radio
News of Sear’s death was announced on Wednesday, March 11, in a post on Shade 45’s official X account. Shade 45, which Sear worked with since its launch in 2004, shared a statement reading, “WE ARE SAD TO REPORT THAT OUR DEAR FRIEND AND HOST, LORD SEAR HAS PASSED AWAY.”
The station’s statement continued, “SEAR WAS MORE THAN A VOICE ON THE RADIO – HE WAS A FORCE, A FRIEND, AND FAMILY TO SO MANY OF US!”
A New York native, Lord Sear built a reputation as one of hip-hop radio’s most distinctive voices throughout his decades-long career. He gained early recognition as the touring DJ for rapper Kurious before his work on WKCR’s Stretch Armstrong and Bobbito Show.
The show is credited with helping introduce future hip-hop icons including Jay-Z, Nas, and Wu-Tang Clan.
Beyond the Radio Booth
Sear contributed to albums by Beastie Boys, Big Pun, MF DOOM, The X-Ecutioners, and Statik Selektah, among others. He also provided voice work for the video games Grand Theft Auto III (2001) and Grand Theft Auto IV (2008).
During the 2000s, Sear expanded his presence on satellite radio as co-host of The All Out Show alongside Rude Jude on Shade 45, the hip-hop channel founded by Eminem on SiriusXM.
At the time of his death, he remained an active voice on Shade 45 as host of The Lord Sear Special, continuing to champion hip-hop music and culture.
Shade 45 announced Sear’s death in a post on X, stating they were “SAD TO REPORT THAT OUR DEAR FRIEND AND HOST, LORD SEAER HAS PASSED AWAY AT AGE 53.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Lord Sear known for?
Lord Sear was known as a veteran DJ and radio personality, a core member of the Stretch Armstrong and Bobbito Show, and a long-time host on Shade 45.
When did Shade 45 announce Lord Sear’s passing?
Shade 45 announced Lord Sear’s passing on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.
What other projects was Lord Sear involved in?
Beyond radio, Lord Sear contributed to albums by several artists including Beastie Boys and Big Pun, and provided voice work for the video games Grand Theft Auto III and Grand Theft Auto IV.
What impact will Lord Sear’s absence have on the hip-hop community and the future of radio programming?
