Biz Markie has passed away after struggling with complications from diabetes for over year. He was 57. According to TMZ, a family source said that Biz passed away at a Baltimore hospital on Friday evening (July 16th).
His wife Tara Hall held his hand as he took his last breath.
A rep for the hip-hop legend said, “We are grateful for the many calls and prayers of support that we have received during this difficult time. 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.”
Tara said in a statement, “A GOOD heart stopped beating this evening… and I was there for the last one,” she wrote. “Biz Fought till the end, like the true legend he is. Biz passed his strength to me during his transition while holding his hand. He knows I’ll need it to carry on the rest of my life without him. broken heart emoji Rest King Biz!”
Biz was hospitalized last summer for a sickness that his rep said was related to his Type II Diabetes and at the time his family was remaining “positive about the outcome.” Then in April, Big Daddy Kane revealed in a radio interview that Biz was doing better and was in a physical rehab facility. Although it was rumored that Biz was in a coma, a source said that that wasn't true.
BIO
Biz Markie, who was nicknamed “The Clown Prince of Hip-Hop,” was born in Harlem and he released his first album, Goin’ Off in 1988. The album which peaked at No. 90 on the Billboard 200 albums chart, included his first Billboard hit, with “Make the Music With Your Mouth.”
In 1989, Biz released his sophomore album The Biz Never Sleeps and his single “Just A Friend,” became a Top 40 hit in multiple countries and went platinum.
Biz's final album I Need A Haircut was released in 1991.
In addition to music, Biz acted in movies and television. He also became a fixture on the children's show Yo Gabba Gabba! with his “Biz’s Beat of the Day” beatboxing segment.
