THREE 6 MAFIA - CRUNCHY BLACK LEAVES THREE 6 MAFIA

Academy Award-winning rap group THREE 6 MAFIA have lost one of their members, a spokesman for Sony Records has confirmed. CRUNCHY BLACK - real name DARNELL CARLTON - quit the hip-hop outfit of his own accord after a prolonged absence from the group. In an interview with New York City's Hot 97's MISS INFO, group members DJ PAUL and JUICY J revealed they haven't talked to Carlton for several months. Carlton, mentioned in a lawsuit alleging he assaulted a Pittsburgh man during a concert in 2005, is reported to be working on a solo album, according to AllHipHop.com. Three 6 Mafia won a Best Original Song Oscar in March (06) for their HUSTLE AND FLOW track IT'S HARD OUT HERE FOR A PIMP.