Rapper Big Pokey died early Sunday after fainting on stage in Texas, according to an Instagram post. Big Pokey, actual name Milton Powell, was 48 years old.
“He was adored by his family, friends, and adoring fans,” the statement read.
“In the following days, we will reveal details on his memorial service and how the public may pay their respects… “Big Pokey will always be known as ‘The Hardest Pit in the Litter!'”
The singer was seen on video playing at a pub in Beaumont, Texas, on Saturday night before fainting into the floor.
Local police were summoned to the pub just after midnight Sunday to assist with the medical issue, according to CBS station KHOU.
The reason of death has not yet been disclosed.
Big Pokey, a Houston native, was a founding member of the hip-hop group “Screwed Up Click” and helped pioneer the chopped-and-screwed music genre.
His first full-length album, “Hardest Pit in the Litter,” was released in 1999.
Following the revelation of his death, tributes flooded in, including a message from Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner.
“The City of Houston and I extend our prayers and condolences to the family and friends of our own Screwed Up Click legendary rapper #BigPokey.”
“Though many referred to him as “low key,” his presence was larger than life in catapulting our hip hop scene nationally,” Turner said.
Bun B, another rapper, called him one of the “most naturally talented artists in the city” and claimed he was “easy to love and hard to hate.”
“One of the pillars of our city,” Bun B stated. “If a person had a heart of gold.” The SUC’s most recognisable member. There will never be another, and he will be much missed. We adore and respect you, Sensei. “Rest in peace.”
Houston rapper Paul Wall spoke to Big Pokey as a “great mentor and friend.”
“A pioneer and a visionary. “I am so grateful to have known #BigPokey,” he said on Instagram.
