UPDATE: Long Beach's Hip-Hop Singer Nate Dogg Dies at 41

Updated with the official confirmation of death and reaction from family, friends and fellow musicians.

The death of Long Beach hip-hop artist Nate Dogg, was officially confirmed on Wednesday. He was 41.

Nate Dogg's brother Samuel called Los Angeles-based radio station KDAY on Wednesday and thanked fans for their good wishes. He declined to comment on his brother's death but said he had struggled with illness for the past three years and that the family would be releasing a statement. Nate Dogg was born and raised in Long Beach as Nathaniel Hale.

"We lost a true legend n hip hop n rnb. One of my best friends n a brother to me... I miss u cuzz. I am so sad but so happy I got to grow up wit u and I will c u again n heaven...,'' Snoop Dogg twitted Wednesday morning.

Several other entertainers also posted tweets to express sadness at the rapper's passing, including comedian Dave Chappelle, singer Erykah Badu and rappers Ludacris and Xzibit. Nate Dogg began singing in Long Beach's New Hope Baptist Church choir, but his rap career, which spanned thee decades, started when he joined cousin Snoop Dogg in the trio 213 with Warren G.

Nate Dogg made a name for himself on Dr. Dre's classic album The Chronic, followed by a breakthrough performance alongside Warren G on the smash record "Regulate," MTV reported on its website. He later released several solo albums, including G-Funk Classics Vol. 1 & 2.

Funeral plans were not immediately announced.

City News Service contributed to this report.