Rapper Biz Markie has died at 57.
The rap legend had been suffering from complications related to diabetes.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce, this evening, with his wife Tara by his side, hip hop pioneer Biz Markie peacefully passed away,” his rep Jenni Izumi said in a statement per Variety.
“We are grateful for the many calls and prayers of support that we have received during this difficult time. 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. He leaves behind a wife, many family members and close friends who will miss his vibrant personality, constant jokes and frequent banter. We respectfully request privacy for his family as they mourn their loved one.”
The Harlem rapper became a household name when he released single “Just a Friend” in 1989, off of his second album, “The Biz Never Sleeps.” He went on to have several mainstream hits, including “Make the Music With Your Mouth, Biz,” “Vapors” and “Nobody Beats the Biz.”
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.
