A future star from Clapham, with a big year in front of him, has had his rap career tragically cut short after he was killed in a car crash.

Cadet, real name Blaine Johnson, was killed in the early hours of Saturday (February 9) on his way to a gig in Staffordshire.

His management told Radio 1 Newsbeat that the 28-year-old grime star was a passenger in a vehicle which crashed while he was on his way to perform at Keele University.

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In an emotional message, the Underrated Legend's family thanked the public for their support.

Their statement said: "We the family of Blaine Cameron Johnson known as Cadet (Underrated Legend) would like to share the sad news that during the early hours of 9th February 2019 he passed away as a passenger in a taxi, en route to a performance.

"Right now we the family appreciate your patience and will share with you any information as and when we can. Thanks for your support in advance. “Love The Johnson Family #cadetcadet #imbuff #underratedlegend #ripcadet.”

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Tributes poured in after the news broke, with cousin Krept leading the way.

He wrote: "Your last words to me were literally “Just know I love you, for real for real” and I am so happy that was our last convo.

"My life will never be the same again. I love you and will forever miss you. I can't believe it. I am heartbroken.

"Rest in peace cuz. You finally started getting the recognition you deserved. I'm so proud of you. My left lung. I'm devastated and broken right now."

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Hundreds of friends, family members and fans of the rapper gathered in Hyde Park yesterday to pay tribute.

Holding back tears, his mother told the crowd: “I want you to be celebrating his life. I want peace and harmony.

"I am so proud of him because he accomplished so much in his life. I am unhappy he has gone but it is not in vain.”

Cadet first became known for his association with Krept and Konan's Gipset crew in 2006.

They grew a considerable following on social media toward the end of 2010 through their freestyles about gang life and London living.

After appearing at the Wireless Festival Krept & Konan a few years ago, Cadet decided to go solo - remaining forever grateful to the famous duo for giving him a kick-start.

In 2015 released his first freestyle "Slut," receiving over 2.9 million views as of 2019.

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His Behind Barz freestyle on Link Up Tv in 2015, attracted praise from Complex, who walled it "storytelling at its finest" and better than some rappers' whole mixtape".

One of his most famous tracks was 'Advice' which also features Deno. Cadet was also famous for his collaboration with Da Beatfreakz, AJ, Deno and Swarmz on the single Pumpy.

This year, he was set to perform at Wireless Festival to deliver a jaw-dropping performance along with the likes of Cardi B, ASAP Rocky, Travis Scott and Migos.

Many felt that this was the year that he became a household name.

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Tributes poured in over the weekend from celebrities, with Ian Wright described him as his 'lil bro' and example wrote "So much positive energy.

"Smiling non-stop when I was with you, first we met I felt as if I'd known you my whole like. Mad humble guy."

Cadet will remain close to the hearts of musicians and fans alike. RIP to the Underrated Legend.