Erica Kennedy, an up-and-coming blogger and author of “Bling”–which was made into a film–has died. She was found dead in her apartment in Miami Beach last week after a “foul smell” was investigated.
Authorities are looking into her death, as the apartment didn’t appear to have been robbed and no other foul play is suspected. A toxicology report is pending.
Kennedy, whose full name was Erica Kennedy Johnson, found success after publishing her book “Bling”–a hip-hop satire–in 2004, and it was subsequently made into a movie. She later published “Feminista” in between working as a fashion publicist, blogger, and brand consultant. Fans and friends remember her as a sharply witty woman with great character, who inspired so many females to go after what they want.
Demetria L. Lucas wrote in Clutch Magazine that Erica was the equivalent of a rock star to her; smart, sophisticated, powerful, and willing to go after what she truly desired in life.
“Long before I committed to being a writer, I daydreamed about being one. And as I flipped through the pages of Vibe, reading and re-reading the words of dream hampton, Lola Ogunnaike, and of course, Erica, a fashion publicist turned writer turned author, I saw not just words, but possibilities. When I found the gumption to tell my parents, “No, I’m not going to law school, I’m going to be a writer,” it was those women – and more—who turned my “maybe I can do this” into “yes, I actually can.”
Erica was Kimora Lee Simmons’ best friend and godmother to her children; she tweeted earlier about the devastation Erica’s death has caused.
My kids asking many questions about their auntie Erica…. Damn girl, damn….. RIP Erica Kennedy Johnson
Erica leaves behind a rich legacy of words and inspiration, as she was able to touch millions of people with her talent.