Rapper Big Pokey passed away early on Sunday after collapsing during a performance in Texas. The news was confirmed in a post on his Instagram page. Big Pokey, born Milton Powell, was 48 years old.
The post stated, “He was deeply loved by his family, friends, and fans. In the coming days, we will provide information about his memorial service and how the public can pay their respects… Big Pokey will always be remembered as ‘The Hardest Pit in The Litter!'”
/ Getty Images
A video circulating online showed Big Pokey performing at a bar in Beaumont, Texas, on Saturday night before collapsing. Local police were called to the bar shortly after midnight Sunday to assist with the medical emergency, according to CBS affiliate KHOU.
The cause of death has yet to be disclosed.
Hailing from Houston, Big Pokey was beloved in his hometown and was one of the original members of the hip-hop collective “Screwed Up Click,” contributing to the popularization of the chopped and screwed music genre. His debut album, “Hardest Pit in the Litter,” was released in 1999.
Tributes poured in following the announcement of his death, including a statement from Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner. Turner wrote, “The City of Houston and I extend our prayers and condolences to our own Screwed Up Click legendary rapper #BigPokey family and friends. Though many called him ‘low key,’ his presence was larger than life in helping to catapult our hip hop scene nationally.”
Fellow rapper Bun B described Big Pokey as one of the “most naturally talented artists in the city” and stated that he was “easy to love and hard to hate.” Bun B further praised him, saying, “One of the pillars of our city. If ‘heart of gold’ was a person. Iconic member of the SUC. There will never be another and will be deeply missed. We love you and honor you Sensei. Rest in heaven.”
Rapper Paul Wall, also from Houston, referred to Big Pokey as a “great mentor and friend.” He expressed his gratitude for knowing him.
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