COLUMN
In Memoriam: Young Randall
Fans, friends and comrades remember the late Portland hip-hop artist.

by ZACH DUNDAS
zdundas@wweek.com

Portland's hip-hop community recently suffered a cruel blow when George "Young" Randall Jr. of the group G-Ism took his own life. Two weeks ago, we asked Randall's friends and fans to contribute brief memorial statements. Our thanks and sympathies go out to his family, his friends and all who wrote in. Here's what we got:

"G-Ism 4 Life"
For the past 14 years, I have been blessed to have a special person in my life: my friend, my brother, Young Randall. We were more than a rap group. We were the best of friends. We struggled and celebrated together. We laughed and cried together. I know you will always be with me. I will never forget the spirit you brought into my life. I love you.

--Your Nigga Ray Ray. G-Ism 4 Life!

--Ray Ray G-Ism

I never knew Young Randall as well as I would have liked to. We often performed on the same stage at the same shows, but rarely got the chance to connect otherwise. The memory that stands out in my head, however, is the sound of his voice. I remember playing the Jus' Family compilation cassette Nuttin But Da Family back in the day. The comp featured Ray-Ray and Young Randall along with my dog Kenny Mack. When Young Randall came through with his high nasal tone, he stood out like a sore thumb. That voice was part of the formula that made a G-Ism track the shit. I always waited for his voice to drop a verse--that's what made the track complete to me. And since I'm not one to mourn the loss, I hope we can all celebrate the life, and be thankful he blessed us with such talent. One love, Young Randall. Hold it down up there. Peace.

--TJ Hooker

The loss of Young Randall came as a big shock to all fans of G-Ism. Young Randall brought fans a lot of good times spent memorizing his lyrics and getting deep into their content. When you, as a fan, listen to someone like Young Randall for years, you begin to think you know him. When he's gone, you feel like a part of yourself is gone. It might sound strange, but it's real. Here's the great thing--Young Randall is immortalized on many great Jus' Family tracks. For years to come, when I want to see Young Randall, I'll close my eyes and put G-Ism on track 11.

--Jeremy Fish

I can't say I knew him well, but I did get the chance to work with Young Randall professionally on several occasions, with The Ledge and at Portland Hemp Fest. I followed his career and had enormous respect for G-Ism's music. Portland has suffered a great loss with his passing. Our condolences go out to his daughter, family and friends, we hope they find peace and strength through their love for each other. He will be missed.

--Siouxsie Crawford
Bohemia Afterdark & The Ledge

George Randall Jr., a.k.a. Young Randall, was truly one of the most trustworthy, caring, sincere, talented, and real men God has ever created. Although he is no longer with us, his legacy will continue. I have founded the Randall Memorial Fund in order to ensure that George's children have financial support throughout their lives. The struggle continues. Please join me in that struggle. Rest in peace, Young Ran! God bless.

--Carlos Laguardia