Rapper Isaac Freeman III, who performs under the name Fatman Scoop, has died after collapsing on stage during a performance in Connecticut.
The 53-year-old rapper suffered a medical emergency while performing at Hamden Town Center Park on Friday, according to Hamden Mayor Lauren Garrett. Garrett said he was taken to a local hospital by ambulance.
Concert footage showed Scoop hyping up the crowd at Hamden’s Green & Gold party just before he collapsed. After he collapsed, another performer was seen leading the crowd in prayer, and people gathered at the back of the stage.
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Scoop’s tour manager Birch Michael confirmed the rapper’s death on social media. He did not provide any information on Scoop’s collapse or cause of death.
“I’m literally speechless,” Michael posted early Saturday morning. “You’ve taken me around the world to perform with you on the biggest and greatest stages on the planet, and what you’ve taught me has made me who I am today.”
The rapper’s booking agency also confirmed his death to CBS News partner BBC News. A spokesperson for MN2S called the New York native a “beloved figure in the music industry” who “left an indelible mark on the industry with his iconic voice, infectious energy, and great personality.”
His family paid tribute to him in an emotional post on social media, remembering Scoop as a “father, uncle, friend” and “world-class performer”.
“He was the laughing stock of our lives, a constant source of support, and a constant source of strength and courage,” the Freeman family wrote.
Missy Elliott, who performed with Scoop on her 2005 single “Lose Control,” also paid tribute to the rapper.
“Prayers for the Fatman Scoop family during this difficult time,” she wrote on social media. “Fatman Scoop’s voice and energy have contributed to so many songs that have made people feel happy and want to dance to for over 20 years. Your impact is immense and will never be forgotten.”
Scoop provided guest vocals on Mariah Carey’s “It’s Like That” and is best known for his 1999 hit single “Be Faithful.” In addition to his rap career, he was a hype man and radio host. He was due to perform at the UK music festival Reminisce later this year. Festival organizers said on social media that they were “heartbroken” by his loss.
“Rest in peace, my friend,” the organizers wrote. “You will be in our hearts forever.”
