Biz Markie, Hip Hop Rap Legend Dead

Biz Markie, the rapper, singer and actor known for his hit "Just a Friend", died on July 16, 2021 at the age of 57. He had been suffering from complications due to diabetes for more than a year. He was born in Harlem, New York, and raised on Long Island. He started his music career as a beatboxer and a member of the Juice Crew, a collective of influential hip-hop artists in the 1980s. 

He released five albums, including the gold-certified "The Biz Never Sleeps" in 1989, which featured his most popular song "Just a Friend". He also appeared in movies and TV shows, such as "Men in Black II" and "SpongeBob SquarePants". He was widely regarded as the "Clown Prince of Hip-Hop" for his humorous and eccentric style. He is survived by his wife Tara and many family members and friends who will miss his vibrant personality and constant jokes.

Biz Markie was a rapper, singer and actor who rose to fame with his hit song "Just a Friend" in 1989. He was born in Harlem, New York, on April 8, 1964, and grew up on Long Island. He was part of the influential Juice Crew, a hip-hop collective that included Big Daddy Kane, Roxanne Shante and Kool G Rap. He was known for his humorous lyrics, his beatboxing skills and his distinctive off-key singing voice.

Biz Markie died on July 16, 2021, at the age of 57, in a Baltimore hospital. He had been suffering from complications due to Type 2 diabetes for several years. His death was confirmed by his rep Jenni Izumi, who said in a statement: "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."

Biz Markie's music and personality influenced many artists across genres and generations. He was sampled by the Beastie Boys, the Rolling Stones and the Black Eyed Peas. He collaborated with the Flaming Lips, Will Smith and the Wu-Tang Clan. He appeared in movies like Men in Black II and TV shows like SpongeBob SquarePants and Empire. He was also a DJ and a radio host who shared his love of music with his fans.

Biz Markie will always be remembered as the "Clown Prince of Hip-Hop" and a friend to many.

Sources:

 https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/biz-markie-dead-1191772/

 https://variety.com/2021/music/news/biz-markie-dead-rapper-just-a-friend-1235022061/

 https://www.theguardian.com/music/2021/jul/16/hip-hop-star-biz-markie-rapper-dies-just-a-friend

 https://www.tmz.com/2021/07/16/just-a-friend-rapper-biz-markie-dead-at-57/