Rapper Biz Markie, born Marcel Theo Hall but fondly referred to as “the Clown Prince of Hip Hop,” died Friday in Baltimore at the age of 57. A cause of death was not disclosed, but he had fought a years-long battle against Type-2 diabetes, Rolling Stone reports.
“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. “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.”
Biz Markie is best known for the song “Just a Friend,” which will cause you to immediately sing out-of-tune, “Yooouuuu, you got what I neeeeed…”