Bill de Blasio and Bootsy Collins mourned the death of “Just a Friend” rapper Biz Markie at the age of 57

Funk musician Bootsy Collins, New York Mayor Bill de Blasio and other prominent figures paid tribute to rapper Biz Markie shortly after Markie’s death on Friday night. The horse gene died of health problems related to type 2 diabetes at the age of 57.

Markie (born Marcel Theo Hall) is best known for his 1989 hit “Just A Friend”, a catchy song about constant rejection. However, he is known for his innovative beatboxer, and his comedy stage performance earned him the title of “Hip Hop Clown Prince”.

Although his last album came out in 2003, he has been in public view ever since.He appeared in science fiction movies Men in Black II In music children’s TV programs Yo Gaba Gaba! He also performed in hip-hop events as the opening performance of comedian Chris Rock during the 2008 “No Apologies” tour.

Recently, he appeared in an episode of 2016 Fox News Hip-hop drama empire And in the finale of the 2017 season ABC series black. He was hospitalized in late July 2020.

“Biz has created an artistic heritage that his industry colleagues and his beloved fans will always celebrate for them, and his life can touch their lives through music, spanning 35 years,” his representative Jenni Izumi told Weekly newspaper In a statement. “He left behind his wife, many family members and close friends, who will miss his energetic personality, constant jokes and frequent jokes.”

After Markie’s death, funk musician Bootsy Collins, known for his collaboration with James Brown and Parliament-Funkadelic, wrote: “We have lost another rap legend, Mr. Biz Markie, an American rapper, singer, DJ, record Producer, actor, comedian, and writer. He is best known for his 1989 single “Just a Friend”! For many of us, he is more than just a friend. Pray to family and friends.”

Q-Tip is a performer known for his work in the hip hop band A Tribe Called Quest. He wrote: “This man is so hurtful… Talk to my Aries brother… …Ah, buddy
@BizMarkie Damn I will miss you so many memories.. It hurts badly. my friend”.

Flea, a founding member of the rock band Red Hot Chili Peppers, wrote: “All my love is dedicated to a great Biz Markie who brings love and joy. I will keep breaking his records until I die and My heart will rejoice. I love you Biz.”

Broadcast reporter Tamron Hall wrote: “Rest in peace. This person made me laugh, cry and feel so happy. You will be missed!! The incomparable #bizmarkie is not only a friend, but an inspiring soul.”

Political news commentator Joey Reid wrote: “Another great loss to hip-hop, culture and the world. Rest in peace, Biz Markey. Too young…”

New York Mayor Bill de Blasio wrote: “Biz Markie has subverted hip-hop music and brought New York’s sense of humor to audiences around the world. Tonight we are mourning our true son in Harlem.”

Rapper RA the Rugged Man wrote: “Biz Markie is my idol. I admire him very much. I have wanted to be Biz since I was a child. I want to be the ultimate party rock singer of the star-star clown of JUICE CREW. The greatest live performance ever. One of the performers. A HipHop machine, a beat boxer, an MC, a DJ, a dancer, a popular producer, a beat producer, a classic album, the ultimate HipHop performer. I come from a tutor near me. I love you. I respect you, I cherish knowing you, and I will miss you in this life. I am very sad. Rest in peace icon / Legand. I express my condolences to your beautiful family.”

Musician INFAMOUS wrote: “RIP BIZ MARKIE…… Your attitude and contribution to hip-hop and the world are needed and appreciated. ❤️”

The record company Ghostly wrote: “The true essence of hip-hop. Character, style and technique. A human Beatbox and a DJ DJ. Human beings are endless emotions and techniques. RIP Biz Markie.”