US Rapper Fatman Scoop performs during a time out in the second half in game four of the Western Conference Finals between the Phoenix Suns and the LA Clippers at Staples Center on June 26, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevork DJANSEZIAN / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / AFP)
New York: US rapper Fatman Scoop has died, his manager announced Saturday, after the 53-year-old artist suffered a medical emergency while performing on stage.
Scoop, best known for the hit tracks "Be Faithful" and "It Takes Scoop," collapsed on stage at Hamden Town Center Park, Connecticut and was taken to hospital where doctors were unable to revive him, US media reported.
Medical staff apparently attempted to administer CPR while he was still on the stage, according to a video of the incident obtained by celebrity news site TMZ. He was then carried away on a stretcher.
"It is with the heaviest of hearts I announce the passing of Isaac Freeman III, known professionally as Fatman Scoop," manager Birch Michael wrote on Facebook.
"You taught me how to be the man I am today. I love you Scoop. Thank you so much for everything you gave to me," Michael added.
Hip-hop star Missy Elliott led the tributes to Scoop, writing on X that Scoop's "voice and energy have contributed to many songs that made the people feel happy and want to dance for over two decades. Your impact is huge and will be never be forgotten."
Radio host Shelley Wade posted a photograph of herself with Scoop, writing: "We are losing too many of our #HipHop legends too soon. Rest easy, Scoop."
