New Orleans Rapper Wacko of UTP Has Passed Away

The New Orleans hip-hop community is mourning the reported passing of Damon “Wacko” Grison, the veteran rapper best known for his work with UTP (Uptown Project/UTP Playas) and his contributions to the classic New Orleans anthem “Nolia Clap.”

Reports of Wacko’s passing began circulating on August 27, 2026, with the news becoming public August 28. At this time, details surrounding his death, including the cause, have not been publicly confirmed by family representatives or major news outlets.

Wacko was deeply connected to New Orleans' Magnolia Projects and the Uptown culture that helped shape his music. He became part of UTP alongside Juvenile, Skip, Soulja Slim, Young Buck and Corey Cee, helping establish the group as an important force in New Orleans street rap during the early 2000s.

UTP's breakthrough came with “Nolia Clap,” a record that captured the energy, pride and bounce of New Orleans' Uptown community. Released in 2004, the song became a national hit, reaching No. 31 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 9 on both the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs and Hot Rap Songs charts.

Wacko's UTP catalog included The Beginning of the End... and the Nolia Clap EP, followed by Back Like We Left Something, his 2007 collaboration with fellow UTP member Skip. He also appeared alongside Skip on Juvenile's 2006 album Reality Check.

Beyond the records, Wacko's story represented an important chapter in New Orleans hip-hop. His music was connected to the streets, the Magnolia Projects and the distinctive regional sound that made New Orleans one of the most influential cities in Southern hip-hop.

For many fans, however, his legacy will forever be connected to “Nolia Clap”—a record that transformed local Uptown pride into a nationwide anthem and preserved a snapshot of New Orleans culture during a pivotal era for the city's music scene.

As the hip-hop community waits for additional confirmation and details surrounding his passing, the music remains. Wacko's voice, his UTP catalog and his contribution to “Nolia Clap” have earned him a lasting place in the history of New Orleans rap.

Rest in peace, Wacko.