Prince Markie Dee, of the iconic 1980s hip-hop group The Fat Boys, died at age 52, a representative said.
Fat Boys manager Louis Gregory confirmed death with a Twitter post on Thursday night.
“Forever in my heart. Prince Markie Dee was more than a rapper; he was one of my best and closest friends,” Louis tweeted “Uncle Louie” Gregory.
“My heart breaks today because I lost a brother. I will always love you, Mark, and I will cherish everything you taught me. Tomorrow is your birthday, rock my way bro. “
The Fat Boys burst onto the scene with their single “All You Can Eat” in 1985. Their 1984 self-titled debut album was produced by rap legend Kurtis Blow and included singles “Jail House Rap” and “Can You Feel It ? “
They also starred in the film “Disorderlies” in 1987 and made a cameo in the classic “Krush Groove” in 1985.
The fusion of the group of freestyle beats and self-deprecating lyrics was influential for generations of musicians and lyricists who imitated their slapstick style.
“They were figuratively (no jokes about weight) the biggest hip hop act ever,” wrote Questlove on Instagram.
“As if the first act that showed that this culture could have real international legs … They were so cool that we just took them for granted. They did choreography and dance moves, the albums won gold and platinum. I made films, TV and commercials. They explored territories for the first time that today seems to yawn a Tuesday. “