Introduction
Darryl Baum is a name that resonates within the hip-hop community, particularly due to his alleged involvement in one of the most infamous incidents in rap history—the shooting of rapper 50 Cent in 2000. Baum’s life and criminal activities have been the subject of much speculation, making him a controversial figure. This article delves deep into his background, his connection to the hip-hop world, the events leading to his death, and his lasting impact on the culture.
Who Was Darryl Baum?
Darryl “Hommo” Baum was a known associate of the notorious Supreme Team, a drug gang that operated in Queens, New York, during the 1980s and 1990s. The Supreme Team was one of the most powerful drug organizations in the city, with ties to several high-profile figures in the rap industry.
Baum was also closely linked to Kenneth “Supreme” McGriff, a prominent drug kingpin who later ventured into the music business, founding the label Murder Inc. Records alongside Irv Gotti. Baum’s criminal history included multiple arrests, and he was considered a dangerous individual with a reputation for violence.
Darryl Baum and the 50 Cent Shooting
One of the most significant events associated with Darryl Baum was the shooting of Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson on May 24, 2000. 50 Cent, then an up-and-coming rapper signed to Columbia Records, was ambushed outside his grandmother’s house in South Jamaica, Queens. He was shot nine times but miraculously survived.
The Alleged Motive Behind the Shooting
Several theories exist regarding why Baum targeted 50 Cent:
- Beef with Jam Master Jay – Some reports suggest that Baum was connected to the murder of Run-DMC’s Jam Master Jay, though this remains unconfirmed. 50 Cent had recorded a diss track (“Who Killed JMJ?”) questioning Jay’s murder, which may have angered those involved.
- Association with Kenneth McGriff – McGriff, Baum’s associate, reportedly had issues with 50 Cent over the rapper’s song “Ghetto Qu’ran,” which mentioned McGriff’s criminal past.
- Street Credibility – Some believe the shooting was an attempt to boost Baum’s reputation in the streets.
Despite widespread speculation, Baum was never officially charged in connection with the shooting before his death.
The Death of Darryl Baum
On June 10, 2000—just weeks after the 50 Cent shooting—Darryl Baum was shot and killed in a drive-by shooting in Queens. His murder remains unsolved, but several theories suggest possible motives:
- Retaliation for 50 Cent’s Shooting – Some believe associates of 50 Cent or other rivals may have orchestrated the hit.
- Internal Gang Conflict – Given Baum’s ties to the Supreme Team, his death could have been the result of internal disputes.
- Law Enforcement Involvement – There were rumors that police may have been involved, though no evidence supports this.
Baum’s death marked the end of a violent chapter in New York’s hip-hop underworld, but his legacy continues to be discussed in rap lore.
Darryl Baum’s Influence on Hip-Hop Culture
Despite his criminal background, Baum’s name is frequently referenced in hip-hop, particularly in songs and documentaries about the 50 Cent shooting and the Supreme Team. His life has been dramatized in various media, including:
- Books – Such as The Commission by Lolita Files, which fictionalizes elements of his story.
- Documentaries – Like Hip-Hop Homicides and Hood 2 Hood, which explore his alleged crimes.
- Music – Rappers like 50 Cent, Ja Rule, and others have alluded to Baum in their lyrics.
Conclusion
Darryl Baum remains one of the most enigmatic and controversial figures in hip-hop history. His alleged involvement in the 50 Cent shooting and his connections to powerful street organizations have cemented his place in rap folklore. While much about his life and death remains shrouded in mystery, his story serves as a cautionary tale about the intersection of crime and the music industry.
For those interested in the darker side of hip-hop history, Baum’s life offers a gripping narrative of power, violence, and the consequences of street life.
