The American rapper and hype man Fatman Scoop has passed away at the age of 53.
The artist’s family announced the news with “deep sorrow and very heavy hearts” in a message posted on his Instagram account.
Earlier, the entertainer, renowned for his 2003 anthem Be Faithful and its interpolation of Faith Evans’s Love Like This, was observed collapsing on stage during a show in Connecticut.
The New York-born rapper, whose birth name was Isaac Freeman III, had removed his shirt and approached a DJ booth when he seemed to fall.
Fatman Scoop in Bristol in June this year. Pic: AP
As those around rushed to perform CPR on the artist, his hype team endeavored to reassure the audience by playing more tracks.
Lauren Garrett, the mayor of Hamden, posted on Facebook earlier on Friday: “Tonight, while performing at Hamden Town Center Park, Isaac Freeman, also known as Fatman Scoop, experienced a medical emergency on stage.
“He is being transported by ambulance to the hospital. We will issue updates when they become available. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.”
‘A luminous spirit’
Fatman Scoop’s family remarked that the world has “lost a luminous spirit, a beacon of light both on stage and in life”, adding that he was “not only a world-class performer but also a father, brother, uncle, and friend”.
They expressed: “He was the joy in our lives, a perpetual source of encouragement, unwavering strength, and valor. Fatman Scoop was celebrated globally as the definitive voice of the club.
“His music inspired us to dance and embrace life with optimism. His happiness was infectious, and the generosity he demonstrated to everyone will be profoundly missed but eternally remembered.”
Birch Michael, known as Pure Cold, also conveyed the news of the artist’s passing, stating: “You taught me how to be the man I am today.
“I love you Scoop; thank you immensely for all that you provided for me.”
Pic: Instagram / @itspurecold
Missy Elliott honors him
Missy Elliott, who worked with Scoop on her 2005 track Lose Control, remarked that his “voice and charisma have contributed to numerous songs that cheered people and made them dance for over twenty years”.
“Your influence is immense and will forever be remembered,” she stated.
Scoop’s talent agency MN2S also paid homage to “our dear friend and client,” adding: “Scoop was a cherished figure in the music realm, whose work was adored by countless fans worldwide.
“His iconic voice, contagious energy, and vibrant personality made an unforgettable impact on the industry, and his legacy will endure through his timeless melodies.”
Sharron Elkabas, one of the MN2S founders, commented: “I spoke to him just a few days ago, and he was in such great spirits. It’s difficult to comprehend that he is no longer with us.”
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Festival remembers ‘beloved’ artist
Scoop is also recognized for his contribution to Mariah Carey’s Grammy-nominated track It’s Like That, along with collaborations with talents such as Nick Cannon, Skrillex, and Timbaland.
He gained further recognition among UK audiences after participating in Channel 5’s Celebrity Big Brother: UK vs USA in 2015, where he was the third contestant to be evicted.
Fatman Scoop in Las Vegas, Nevada, in July 2014. Pic: AP
The rapper was slated to perform in the UK in September at the Reminisce Festival in Saint Helens, which stated on Facebook: “He was not just one of our most popular performers; he was a treasured member of the Reminisce family.
“His energy, talent, and infectious spirit will be missed more than words can articulate.”
