Biz Markie Passes Away at 57

The Clown Prince of Hip-Hop, Biz Markie, is Dead at 57: All the Details Here!  

Marcel Theo Hall, aka Biz Markie, has unfortunately passed away aged 57. The rapper/songwriter was long battling a health crisis. He was hospitalized due to severe complications with Type 2 diabetes. He suffered a stroke in April and was put in a hospice after that. Markie breathed his last in Baltimore hospital on July 16. 

The rapper's manager, Jenni Izumi, confirmed the news. "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, "We are grateful for the many calls and prayers of support that we have received during this difficult time," Izumi said in a written statement.   

 Markie was put in hospice care after he suffered a stroke in April. Photo Source: USA Today

Markie's rep told CNN, "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."   

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Markie was rumored to be dead a month ago. On July 1, several posts claimed Markie was dead. His rep at the time refuted the news and said, "He is still in medical care and is surrounded by professionals who were working hard to provide the best healthcare possible."   

Biz Markie is survived by his wife, Tara. 
Photo Source: CNN 

Biz was best known for his 1989 single Just a Friend. The Manhattan-born rapper's earliest album Goin off, The Biz Never Sleeps, were big hits. His riveting beatboxing, silly humor, and quirky persona had earned him the nickname,'The clown prince of hip hop.'  

Obituaries for the late rapper have been overflowing and friends and fans. Turron Davenport wrote, "RIP to the great Biz Markie, one of my all time favorites. The hip hop world lost a GOAT today." Biz is survived by his wife Tara, whom he married in 2005. The duo didn't have any children in their 16 years of marriage.  

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