New York hip-hop MC and beatbox master Biz Markie has died at age 57 Friday evening after a year of fighting diabetes complications.
Mostly known for his 1989 platinum-selling classic “Just a Friend,” the Biz started his career as the “Clown Prince of Hip-Hop” a few years earlier as a member of the Juice Crew, which he helped friend Big Daddy Kane join.
Born Marcel Theo Hall, Biz’s humorous lyrics, unique voice and “inhuman orchestra” beatbox skills in songs such as “Pickin’ Boogers,” “Going Off,” and “Make the Music with Your Mouth” made Biz a standout among other rappers of the time.
And while “Just a Friend” was his mainstream hit, “Vapors” is probably Biz’ most well-known song to his underground hip-hop fans.
Releasing five studio albums of his own, Biz has also appeared on many albums by other artists including the Beastie Boys, the Rolling Stones, Will Smith and the Flaming Lips.
