STREAM EXCLUSIVE ORIGINALS

N.W.A. Manager Jerry Heller Dies at 75

He took part in the rise of N.W.A.

Jerry Heller, who served as N.W.A.'s groundbreaking/controversial manager and helped launch Ruthless records with band member Eazy-E, has died at age 75. According to TMZ, Heller suffered major injuries after slamming into a mini-van while driving in Ventura County Friday. He was rushed to the hospital. It's unclear at this time if he died from the medical emergency, the collision or both.

Controversy followed Heller throughout his career including on-going contract disputes and lawsuits, most notably with Ice Cube and Dr. Dre. He took part in the rise of N.W.A. and other rap stars including Bone-Thugs-N-Harmony. Heller also worked with huge rock and soul acts in the 60s and 70s including ... Elton John, Pink Floyd, Marvin Gaye, Otis Redding, The Who and Ike & Tina Turner.

Rest in Peace, Jerry Heller.