Mack Maine is grieving the tragic loss of his son.
The rapper and business partner of Lil Wayne announced July 28 that his son Isaiah “Zeke” Preyan suddenly died earlier in the month after experiencing a seizure at his home in California. He was reportedly 20 years old.
“I’m still in shock and still processing the fact that he’s gone,” Mack Maine (real name Jermaine Preyan) wrote in an Instagram tribute alongside pictures with his son from throughout his life. “Still confused, still questioning life and why my child and not me.”
The 43-year-old also envisioned Zeke reuniting with his grandparents, adding, “I know I am/was his father while he was here in the flesh but now he’s ascended to rejoin OUR Father God in the spirit and his ancestors who also loved him dearly.”
In addition to the update, Mack addressed his late son directly and shared his gratitude for the impact he had made.
“Zeke I thank you for granting me with one of the greatest gifts I’ve ever received, Fatherhood!” he shared. “The experience and bond with you and I brought me purpose… YOU were my biggest inspiration and motivation..YOU were the reason I got out of the bed when everyone else snoozed.”
“Your smile brightened my dark days as you were my SONshine,” Mack continued. “Your soul was made of innocence and your heart was pure.”
While noting the loss of Zeke is a pain he had “never felt before,” the rapper also acknowledged that he was sharing the news on his own birthday. Given the timing, he called for his followers to cherish their loved ones.
“Today if you all are reading this and would like to do sumthin for me for my bday I ask that you hug the ones you love and squeeze em tight,” Mack wrote. “If you can’t hug em call em to tell them you love them… And if you in the same boat as me close you eyes and remember the good times or scroll thru pics and vids.”
After sharing the news of Zeke’s tragic death, Mack received a wave of support, including from his “Tapout” collaborator Nicki Minaj.
“I don’t even believe what I just read,” the “Starships” singer commented. “This can’t be real. I love you so much. You guys raised the most incredible young man. He was such a perfect boy. I have no words to express what you must be feeling. No words. We are praying for your whole family, Mack. We love you so much.”
Grammy winner 2 Chainz also shared his condolences, writing, “Bru im so sorry to hear this. praying for you and the fam I love ya bru.”