News
US rapper Biz Markie dies at 57
American rapper, DJ and producer Biz Markie, who shot to fame with the 1989 hit “Just a Friend,” died yesterday aged 57, his representatives said.
He died with his wife by his side, Jenni Izumi of Biz Markie Inc. told AFP in a statement.
“Biz created a legacy of artistry that will forever be celebrated by his industry peers and his beloved fans whose lives he was able to touch through music, spanning over 35 years,” the statement read.
No cause of death was given for the rapper, whose real name was Marcel Hall, but he had experienced health issues in recent years related to type 2 diabetes, media reports said.
Known for songs often featuring amusing lyrics, including “Pickin’ Boogers” from his 1988 debut album “Goin’ Off,” “Let Go My Eggo” and “Chinese Food,” the New York-born Biz Markie earned the nickname the “Clown Prince of Hip-Hop.”
“Just a Friend,” with its catchy off-key chorus, hit No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and later was added to VH1’s list of the 100 greatest hip-hop songs.
His death triggered an outpouring of tributes.
Bodex F. Hungbo, SPMIIM is a multiple award-winning Nigerian Digital Media Practitioner, Digital Strategist, PR consultant, Brand and Event Expert, Tv Presenter, Tier-A Blogger/Influencer, and a top cobbler in Nigeria.
She has widespread experiences across different professions and skills, which includes experiences in; Marketing, Media, Broadcasting, Brand and Event Management, Administration and Management with prior stints at MTN, NAPIMS-NNPC, GLOBAL FLEET OIL AND GAS, LTV, Silverbird and a host of others
Check Out The Latest Edition of The ELITES
U.S. revokes over 100,000 visas, including thousands of student permits
