The sad news that legendary legacy rapper, beat master and comic actor Biz Markie died at age 57 was not unexpected. For the last several weeks, and after a reported stroke and long struggle with Type II diabetes, the human beat box and genius floacist behind early hip-hop hits such as “Just a Friend” and “Nobody Beats the Biz,” has been on a morbid, unfortunate death watch with his passing signaled on social media several times before Friday night.
Yet, the final word of Markie’s actual death didn’t just shock members of the musical community where Biz was beloved from his talents, humor and humility; it saddened them, signaling an end of an era for hip hop with a gently comic, cartoony twist. With Markie’s passing came a litany of love, respect and fond remembrance.
“One of my favorite songs @BizMarkie,” said producer and Verzuz co-founder Timbaland of Markie’s slow 1988 classic, “The Vapors,” on Twitter while throwing up its vintage video. “Rest easy king.”
One of my favorite songs @BizMarkie Rest easy king
