Rapper Nipsey Hussle shot dead in Los Angeles

Grammy-nominated rapper Nipsey Hussle was shot dead in the US city of Los Angeles Sunday, sparking an outpouring of grief from fellow celebrities as the city's mayor blamed "senseless gun violence."

Artists including Drake, Rihanna, and J Cole have paid tribute to Hussle.

Local media reported Hussle, 33, was shot in front of his own clothing store Sunday afternoon at close range, by a man who fled in a getaway car.

"Our hearts are with the loved ones of Nipsey Hussle and everyone touched by this awful tragedy," LA Mayor Eric Garcetti tweeted.

A police spokesman told, the suspected shooter remained at large. Two other people were wounded.

"L.A. is hurt deeply each time a young life is lost to senseless gun violence," Garcetti said.

The Los Angeles Times reported the shooting was "likely planned and gang-related."

Nipsey Hussle's debut album Victory Lap received a nomination for best rap album at this year's Grammy Awards, where he was nominated against Cardi B, Mac Miller, Pusha T, and Travis Scott.

Hussle, real name Ermias Davidson Asghedom, grew up in south Los Angeles and was a member of the Rollin' 60s street gang as a teenager.

He later became a community organizer and was involved with the Destination Crenshaw arts project.