Fatman Scoop, the Grammy-winning rapper and cult figure known for his booming voice and energetic performances, died after collapsing during a show on August 30, 2024 in Hamden, Connecticut. He was 56 years old.
Born Isaac Freeman III in Harlem, New York City, Fatman Scoop rose to fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s with his hit single “Be Faithful.” The track, which initially had modest success in the United States, skyrocketed to popularity in Europe, reaching number one on the singles charts in the United Kingdom and Ireland in 2003.
Fatman Scoop’s distinctive gravelly voice and infectious energy made him a sought-after collaborator in the music industry. He lent his talents to numerous chart-topping hits, including Missy Elliott’s “Lose Control” featuring Ciara, which won a Grammy Award for Best Short Form Music Video in 2006. He also appeared on Mariah Carey’s “It’s Like That” and worked with other notable artists such as Timbaland, David Guetta, and Skrillex.
The rapper’s final performance took place at Hamden Town Center Park on Friday evening, August 30, 2024. Sean Grace, the town’s chief of staff, confirmed that Fatman Scoop collapsed while on stage. Mayor Lauren Garrett shared on Facebook that concertgoers and paramedics attempted to provide aid before the artist was rushed to a hospital. The exact cause of death has not been disclosed.
Footage from the concert shows Fatman Scoop approaching the DJ booth and engaging with the crowd moments before the incident. Witnesses reported that his breathing became labored just before he collapsed, dropping the microphone.
Just hours before his unexpected passing, Fatman Scoop had celebrated the release of a new single, a collaboration with musician Dyce Payso.
Throughout his career, the rapper expanded his repertoire beyond music. In 2004, he appeared on the UK television series “Chancers,” where musicians mentored aspiring artists hoping to break into the U.S. market. He also ventured into reality television, participating as a contestant on “Celebrity Big Brother 16: UK vs USA” in 2015.
The news of Fatman Scoop’s passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from fellow artists and industry professionals. His longtime booking agency, MN2S, described him as an artist with “boundless enthusiasm” and a passion for music that left an indelible mark on the industry.
Sharron Elkabas, Fatman Scoop’s representative at MN2S, shared a heartfelt statement: “He was in such good spirits. It’s hard to believe he is no longer with us.”
Missy Elliott, a frequent collaborator and friend, took to social media to express her grief and admiration for the late rapper. She praised Scoop’s “VOICE and energy” on X, stating, “Your IMPACT is HUGE & will be NEVER be forgotten.”
Fatman Scoop’s family released a touching statement on Instagram, describing him as “the undisputed voice of the club” and a “radiant soul, a beacon on stage and in life.” They added, “His music made us dance and embrace life with positivity. His joy was infectious and the generosity he extended to all will be deeply missed but never forgotten.”
Beyond his public persona, Fatman Scoop was cherished by his family as “the laughter in our lives, a constant source of support, unwavering strength and courage.” They emphasized the lasting impact of his work, stating that he leaves a legacy “of love and brightness.”
Fatman Scoop’s influence extended beyond the realm of music. He made appearances in various media, including a role on the animated series “The Boondocks.” He also demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit by owning an ice cream parlor.
In recent years, Fatman Scoop continued to collaborate with both established and emerging artists. In 2018, he reunited with Missy Elliott and Ciara for a remix of Ciara’s “Level Up.” His most recent musical endeavor was a collaboration with Tech N9ne on the 2024 single “No Popcorn,” showcasing his enduring relevance in the hip-hop scene.
Throughout his career, Fatman Scoop’s contributions to the music industry were significant and wide-ranging. His ability to energize crowds and elevate tracks with his distinctive voice made him a valuable asset to numerous hit songs. From club anthems to mainstream chart-toppers, his presence was felt across various genres of popular music.
As news of his passing spreads, fans and fellow artists alike are remembering Fatman Scoop for his larger-than-life personality, his unmistakable voice, and the joy he brought to dance floors around the world.