Woodie
Background information
Birth name	Ryan Mitchell Wood
Born	November 20, 1975 Antioch, California, U.S
Origin	Antioch, California
Died	March 7, 2007 (aged 31) Florence, Oregon
Genres	Hip-Hop,Gangsta rap,West Coast hip hop
Occupation(s)	Rapper record producer songwriter
Years active	1998-2006
Labels	East Co Co Records(1998)

Ryan Mitchell Wood, also known as Woodie (November 20, 1975 – March 7, 2007), was a prominent rapper and music producer from Antioch, California. In 1997, Wood initiated his own music label, East Co. Co. Records. Following this, he finalized his first solo album, "Yoc Influenced," which was released in 1998. Alongside D-Small as the executive producer, Wood's label put out its inaugural compilation, "Northern Expozure Vol. 1," in 1999, featuring the standout track "Norte Sidin."

He was recognized for his fast-paced style and introspective lyrics, often reflecting on real-life experiences and dilemmas. Woodie's music, which included references to gang life, violence, and personal conscience, resonated with many fans and offered a platform for other emerging artists.^[1]

Woodie was a member of the Norteños street gang, and in 1995, a fellow member and friend of Woodie's named Gabriel "Snoop" Roberson, was connected to homicide that took place, and ultimately tried and convicted on four counts of attempted murder, and one count of murder. Roberson denied committing the murders, and his case obtained notability due to Woodie's references of the events and proclamation that "Snoop" was innocent. In 2020, the case was examined for a parol hearing, after Gabriel "Snoop" Robberson brought up a lack of evidence, and despite fans of Woodie speculating that "Snoop" took the fall for a crime Woodie may have been committed, the parolle board denied Robberson's parole requests.^[2]

In 2007, Woodie's life came to a tragic end under circumstances that are still not entirely clear. While some reports suggest he took his own life in Florence, Oregon, official records to confirm these details have not been located. Woodie's death left a deep impact on his friends, family, and fans, and even years later, the pain of his loss is still felt among those who knew him and appreciated his work. In 2018, a memorial headstone installed at Holy Cross Cemetery in Antioch in honor of Woodie was reported stolen. This headstone, while not containing his remains, served as a significant place for his loved ones to connect with his memory. The theft of the headstone was met with shock and sadness from his community, who viewed it as a deeply disrespectful act.^[3]

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