Father of rapper Ludacris dies weeks after Grammys nod

<p>The father of rap artist Ludacris has died, two weeks after the Atlanta performer gave a public nod to his ailing father during a Grammy Awards acceptance speech.</p><p>Wayne Brian Bridges, 52, died Sunday morning in an Atlanta hospital after a long illness, said Barry Florence, a publicist for Ludacris.</p><p>The rapper, whose real name is Chris Bridges, thanked fans for their support and asked for privacy to grieve in a statement released Monday.</p><p>"We are overwhelmed by the generous outpouring of love, condolences and support from family members, friends, fans and the many well wishers," he said. "We thank you for your prayers and hope you will understand our need for privacy during this sorrowful time."</p><p>Florence said the family has chosen not to publicly announce the cause of death.</p><p>"It's nothing unusual; they're just choosing to keep their privacy," he said.</p><p>On Feb. 11, Ludacris won Grammys for Best Rap Album, for "Release Therapy," and Best Rap Song for "Money Maker."</p><p>While receiving the best album award, he dedicated the win to his father, who he said was in critical condition and fighting for his life.</p><p>"Mr. Wayne Bridges, I love you to death," he said at the televised Los Angeles ceremony.</p><p>The elder Bridges was being treated at Atlanta's Piedmont Hospital at the time of his death.</p><p>The Monday statement called Wayne Bridges a great influence on his son, saying he had exposed him to music as a young child.</p><p>"Wayne had an infectious personality with a zest for life," the statement said. "His joy for life will forever be his legacy and will live on through Chris, his family and friends.</p><p>The family is planning a private funeral in Atlanta, Florence said.</p><p>___</p><p>On the Net:</p><p>HASH(0x1cdbdc8)</p>