Jason Orr @funkjazzkafe mentioned: “Andre ‘Dres Tha Beatnik’ Lett, a real ‘One among one’. He has been part of our FunkJazz Kafe Arts & Music Competition magic since our begin in 1994.”
Pete Rock honored him as an “Atlanta-based legend,” with messages of respect posted throughout platforms.
Jurassic 5 famous: “RIP @dresthabeatnik I’ve been in Atlanta 20 years and Dres has at all times opened up his area for me …”
A fighter till the tip
Battling continual kidney illness, Dres shared his resilience brazenly. A March submit on social media recounted his second surgical procedure: “No matter or nonetheless it goes down please pray for me. Thanks upfront,” adopted by a triumphant replace post-surgery. His candid transparency and optimistic perspective impressed many.
Legacy lives on
Dres leaves behind a legacy of cultural preservation, group uplift and creative excellence. From championing beatbox battle tradition to mentoring younger creatives, his contributions echo by each nook of Atlanta’s creative pulse. As followers, artists and residents bear in mind him, the “Divine Actual Essence of Sound” will proceed to resonate.
In closing
Atlanta stands at a second of collective reflection — honoring a neighborhood champion whose affect transcended sound. D.R.E.S. Tha Beatnik championed respect, storytelling and unity in hip-hop’s most sacred areas. At present, Atlantans have fun a life that without end formed the rhythm and soul of town.