Fatman Scoop, the rapper best known for collaborating with artists likeMissy ElliottandMariah Carey, has died at 53.
Ollie Millington/Redferns
Freeman’s manager, Michael Birch, confirmed early Saturday morning that the rapper had died.
“You taught me how to be the man I am today.
Fatman Scoop performing at the O2 Arena in London in 2020.Ollie Millington/Redferns
I love you, Scoop, Thank you so much for everything you gave to me.
Rest in peace.”
Birch did not disclose the rapper’s cause of death.
Missy Elliott and Fatman Scoop.Jo Hale/Getty
Freeman’s familyposted a messageon his official Instagram account confirming his death later on Saturday morning.
Their statement continued, “Fatman Scoop was known to the world as the undisputed voice of the club.
His music made us dance and embrace life with positivity.
His joy was infectious, and the generosity he extended to all will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
Fatman Scoop’s legacy is of love and brightness.
It will reside in our hearts and memories forever.”
Lil Jonwrote, “Rest well, brother,” whileJordin Sparkscommented, “My heart!
Thank you for the joy, Scoop.”
“Prayers for Fatman Scoop family for STRENGTH during such a difficult time,” she wrote.
“Man, I’m lost for words,” he wrote.
“‘Drop’ was the song I start off with on tour… Rest easy.”
To just forget about your troubles and live in the moment and allow joy in.
So sad to see you go, my brother.
You will be missed, but you will NEVER be forgotten."
The song was featured in the movieSave the Last Danceand soundtracked the trailer forThe Best Man.
The song peaked at No.
3 on theBillboardHot 100 and earned a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Song.
The song was nominated for a Grammy for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.
