On April 11, 2006, the hip-hop world lost one of its most beloved voices — Big Proof, a founding member of D12 and a close friend and mentor to Eminem, was tragically shot and killed in Detroit. His impact on rap culture, especially in Detroit’s underground scene, left an unforgettable mark. In the years since his passing, artists have continued to honor his legacy through powerful, heartfelt tributes in music.
Here’s a collection of some of the most moving tracks dedicated to Proof after his death:
Royce Da 5’9″ – “Security”
“I was at Proof’s funeral / Crying like a baby, I was sitting in the back row…”
Eminem – “Difficult”
“I found that jacket that you left at my wedding and I picked it up to smell it…”
Kuniva – “Lights Out”
“This s**t is so depressing / I stop thinking selfish, my dude had kids…”
Swifty McVay – “Guardian Angel”
“Your family is stronger than ever / Keeping it cool / Thanks to God / Time heals wounds…”
Eminem – “You’re Never Over”
“Proof, not many are lucky enough to have a guardian angel like you…”
Obie Trice – “Ride Wit Me”
“Proof, to shine hopes on your memories forever spoken…”
Jem – “You Will Make It”
“You’re not alone, You’ll never be, Just like the stars, They oversee…”
D12 – “Mr. Pitts” ft. King Gordy
“We all love driving, reminiscing about how me, you (Bugz) and Proof used to go fishing…”
Each of these songs reflects the deep pain, love, and respect that fellow artists had for Big Proof — not just as a rapper, but as a brother, friend, and icon. His spirit continues to live on in the music and in the hearts of those who knew him best.
