Well known journalist, fashionist and internet icon Dallas Penn has passed away. He was 54.

On Wednesday (May 1), friends and fans shared tributes to Dallas on social media and reflected on his influence following the reveal of the tragic news.

“Dallas has ascended to the music that was waiting for him,” his wife posted on Penn’s Facebook page. “From September 1970 to April 2024, he always said it don’t stop, it won’t stop, and he’s waiting for us all at the Funkadelic Stevie Wonder Sean Price party in the sky. Rest my love and see you in our other lifetimes. Love you always, for all time.”

“Haven’t cried this hard in a while, truly lost for words. Dallas Penn Your Energy and Light will never ever leave us! I Love you Forever my Brother…. 💔🙏🏼🕊️”, posted frequent collaborator and close friend, Premium Pete.

Last month, Penn, revealed he was hospitalized and being moved to the intensive care unit. He also mentioned he’d been enrolled in the World Trade Center Health Program regarding his latest health issue.

Penn was a well-respected journalist and cultural influencer best-known for his 90s fashion, specifically Ralph Lauren’s Polo brand, and his critic in hip hop music. He launched his website DallasPenn.com in 2003, before linking with the late Reggie “Combat Jack” Ossé to serve as a co-host on the podcast, The Combat Jack Show.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Dallas Penn, wife, family and friends.