Legendary rapper and hype man Fatman Scoop has died at the age of 56 after collapsing on stage. The iconic musician will forever be remembered for his hit song “Be Faithful,” which gained a lot of attention in the early 2000s. He was a voice that was fully embraced by club culture.
Fatman Scoop collapsed on stage
Born Isaac Freeman III, Fatman Scoop died on Friday after collapsing on stage mid-performance. He was performing live at the Town Center Park in Hamden, Connecticut. While some say that he was 53 years old, insiders say he was 56.
The cause of death is not yet known. The confirmation came via a message on the Instagram page of the artist.
In a video that is circulating on social media, audience members can be seen performing CPR on Fatman Scoop after the collapse. Reports say that his breathing was getting heavy before, and his last words were: “If you came to the party … make some noise.”
He was taken to a nearby hospital, and his death was announced the next day.
Fatman Scoop’s career soared in the 2000s
International recognition came in 2003 when his 1999 club anthem “Be Faithful” was re-released. The success led to collaboration with pop icons like Mariah Carey, Janet Jackson, and Missy Elliott. Fatman Scoop’s career highlights also include his work with Ciara and Missy on “Level Up” in 2018.
Tributes pour in after Fatman Scoop’s sudden death
Many significant figures in the music industry are paying homage to the talented artist. Questlove shared on Instagram: “I want to thank FATMAN SCOOP for being an embodiment of what hip hop was truly about. To just forget about your troubles and live in the moment and allow joy in. So sad to see you go my brother. You will be missed but you will NEVER be forgotten.”
Missy Elliott tweeted: “Prayers for Fatman Scoop family for STRENGTH during this difficult time. Fatman Scoop VOICE & energy have contributed to MANY songs that made the people feel HAPPY & want to dance for over 2 decades. Your IMPACT is HUGE & will be NEVER be forgotten.”
Hamden Mayor Lauren Garrett also paid tribute to the music star.
Fatman Scoop stayed true to his roots
Fatman Scoop was born in Manhattan and raised in Harlem during an era when hip-hop became an important genre. He was heavily influenced by artists like Doug E. Fresh. In 2023, he told Urban Politicians TV: “I am a disciple of Doug E. Fresh. He was the neighborhood star. Everything that I learned, pretty much, I learned from Doug.”
He was also a DJ on New York’s Hot 97 radio station.
Who does he leave behind?
Fatman Scoop is survived by his parents, Clara Elizabeth Freeman and Isaac Freeman Jr., as well as his children, daughter Tiana Freeman and son Torrance Freeman.
He got married twice. However, thirteen years ago, his marriage to Shanda Freeman ended in a divorce.
Fatman Scoop’s legacy
He occupied a unique space in the culture. The man known as the “the undisputed voice of the club” had an energy level that was unmatched. He always brought joy to different crowds and his lines will live forever.
Fatman Scoop was always the life of the party while on stage. Interestingly, he was a quiet man off stage.
The community comes together, waiting for answers
In the aftermath of Fatman Scoop’s death, the town of Hamden is offering grief counseling to help fans and witnesses cope with the tragic loss.
Moreover, the hip-hop community is waiting for the autopsy results and the cause of death to get some answers.