Rapper Nate Dogg dead at 41

LONG BEACH, Calif., March 16 (UPI) -- Nathaniel Hale, the rap artist known professionally as Nate Dogg, has died, his family confirmed. He was 41.

California's Long Beach Press-Telegram said the cause of the musician's death Tuesday was not immediately disclosed.

He had suffered strokes in 2007 and 2008, the newspaper noted.

Before establishing himself as a successful hip-hop artist, Hale served three years in the U.S. Marine Corps.

He later collaborated with rappers such as Snoop Dogg, Warren G, RBX and Daz Dillinger.

Snoop Dogg posted a Twitter tribute to Hale shortly after his death.

Calling Hale one of his best friends and a "true legend" in hip hop and R&B music, Snoop also added the message, "All doggs go to heaven," TMZ reported.