Lotto Savage’s memorial service held in Atlanta

21 Savage and more attend Lotto Savage’s funeral

The loss of a talented artist is always heartbreaking, but when that artist is someone you considered a close friend, the grief hits even harder. Such is the case with 21 Savage, who recently paid tribute to his late rap peer, Lotto Savage. Tragically, Lotto Savage, a rising star in the Atlanta rap scene, was killed in a shooting in Decatur, Georgia, earlier this year. As fans and the music world process the loss, 21 Savage has taken a moment to honor his late friend and collaborator.

The Tragic Passing of Lotto Savage: What We Know

In late March 2025, news broke that Lotto Savage had been fatally shot in Decatur, Georgia. While few details were immediately released about the circumstances of the shooting, the shockwaves of the news reverberated throughout the hip-hop world. Fans and fellow artists alike mourned the untimely loss of an artist who had been steadily rising to prominence in the Atlanta rap scene.

Lotto’s funeral was held on Saturday, March 29, 2025, in his hometown of Atlanta. The service was an emotional gathering for his family, friends, and fans, as they paid their final respects to a young talent taken far too soon. Among those in attendance was 21 Savage, who had been one of Lotto’s closest friends and collaborators. The rapper’s grief was palpable in a short video shared online, where he was seen wearing a red jacket and standing in silence at the outdoor ceremony.

While the details surrounding Lotto’s death remain unclear, his impact on the Atlanta rap scene cannot be denied. His contributions to the culture and his influence on the next generation of artists continue to live on.

The Rise of Lotto Savage: From the Streets of Atlanta to the Rap Game

Lotto Savage wasn’t just another rapper—he was a product of his environment, shaped by the streets of Atlanta. Born and raised in the city, Lotto was able to channel his life experiences into his music, creating an authentic sound that resonated with listeners. His rise to prominence can be traced back to 2015, when he first began making waves in the Atlanta rap scene.

His breakthrough came with the release of singles like “Trapped It Out,” “Whoa” (featuring 21 Savage and 21 Lil Harold), and “30” (featuring Lil Yachty). These tracks quickly garnered attention, with their hard-hitting beats and gritty lyrics capturing the essence of life in Atlanta’s streets. Lotto’s flow was unique, characterized by a combination of vulnerability and rawness that made him stand out in a crowded industry.

Lotto’s connection to 21 Savage was evident from the start. The two were both members of the Slaughter Gang collective, a group that played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of Atlanta rap during the mid-2010s. While 21 Savage became the most commercially successful member of the collective, Lotto and other artists in the group found their own success, with many carving out their own niches within the rap scene.

The Slaughter Gang Collective: A Family of Rappers

The Slaughter Gang collective is more than just a group of artists—it’s a family. Founded by 21 Savage, the collective has become synonymous with the gritty, unapologetic style of Atlanta rap that has dominated the mainstream in recent years. Members of the collective, including Lotto Savage, 21 Lil Harold, and others, have all contributed to the underground success of the group, with each artist bringing their own unique flavor to the table.

For Lotto Savage, the Slaughter Gang collective represented a place of belonging, a community where he could share his experiences and grow as an artist. 21 Savage, as both a mentor and peer, helped guide Lotto in his musical journey, offering advice and opportunities that contributed to Lotto’s rise in the game. The bond between 21 Savage and Lotto was more than just professional—it was personal, with the two rappers sharing a deep friendship rooted in mutual respect.

The collective’s impact on Atlanta rap cannot be overstated. While 21 Savage gained international fame, Slaughter Gang as a whole has played a significant role in shaping the sound of the city. This is evident in the success of artists like Lil Harold, and Lotto Savage, who have all carried the torch for Atlanta’s underground scene.

21 Savage’s Tribute to Lotto: A Friend Remembered

When news of Lotto Savage’s death broke, 21 Savage was among the first to pay tribute to his friend. In a heartfelt Instagram post, 21 shared throwback photos of him and Lotto from their days growing up in the rap scene together. The post was a reminder of the bond they shared, both as collaborators and as close friends.

21’s tribute didn’t just highlight Lotto’s contributions to the rap game; it also focused on the personal connection they had. The two rappers had been through a lot together, from the grind of making music to navigating the ups and downs of the industry. Their friendship was a testament to the power of music to bring people together, even in the most challenging times.

At Lotto’s funeral, 21 was visibly emotional, a reflection of the deep loss he felt. It was clear from the video shared on social media that 21 wasn’t just mourning the death of a friend, but also the loss of an integral part of the Slaughter Gang collective. The impact of Lotto’s passing extends beyond just his music—it has affected his friends, family, and the entire hip-hop community.

Legacy and Influence: Lotto’s Impact on the Culture

Although Lotto Savage’s life was tragically cut short, his influence on the Atlanta rap scene is undeniable. His music resonated with fans because it was real and relatable. Lotto rapped about his experiences growing up in Atlanta, and his lyrics spoke to the struggles and triumphs of everyday life in the city. Tracks like “Trapped It Out” and “30” became anthems for those who saw themselves in his words.

Lotto’s impact on the Atlanta rap scene will continue to be felt for years to come. He was part of a wave of artists that helped redefine the sound of the city, blending traditional trap elements with new, innovative styles. His collaborations with 21 Savage, Lil Yachty, and others helped to push the boundaries of what Atlanta rap could be, and his legacy will live on through his music.

Lotto was also a symbol of the DIY ethos that has driven Atlanta’s underground scene for years. He was part of a generation of artists who built their careers from the ground up, creating their own opportunities and taking control of their destinies. This spirit of independence and self-reliance is something that will continue to inspire artists for generations to come.

Remembering Lotto Savage’s Impact

The tragic loss of Lotto Savage is a reminder of how fleeting life can be, but it also serves as a celebration of his contributions to the culture. While his time in the spotlight was short, his impact on the Atlanta rap scene was profound. Through his music, Lotto was able to connect with fans, share his story, and inspire others to chase their dreams.

21 Savage’s tribute to his late friend is a testament to the power of friendship and the bonds that are formed through music. Lotto’s legacy will live on through his music and the memories of those who knew him best. As the hip-hop community continues to mourn his loss, one thing is certain: Lotto Savage’s impact will never be forgotten.

In a world where rap legends often rise and fall quickly, Lotto Savage’s story is one of talent, perseverance, and heart. He will be missed, but his music and his influence will remain a part of the Atlanta rap scene for years to come.