Rapper Biz Markie, (real name Marcel Theo Hall), best known for his iconic 1989 hit “Just A Friend,” has died at the age of 57, following years of complications with diabetes, according to US media reports. 

Markie breathed his last in a Baltimore hospital at 6:25 PM Friday night, according to TMZ reports, which confirmed that his Tara Hall was present at the hospital at the time of death.

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“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,” his representative told TMZ. 

He further added that Markie’s wife, family members and close friends whom the rapper left behind, will miss his “vibrant personality, constant jokes and frequent banter.”

Last summer, the Harlem-born had to be hospitalised for an ailment relating to Type II Diabetes, according to reports.

This year, in April, rapper Big Daddy Kane spoke on The Breakfast Club, revealing that Markie was doing better, and in a physical rehab facility.

The rapper first garnered national and international fame, when his single “Just a Friend” became a Top 40 hit in multiple countries and went platinum. 

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Following that his career skyrocketed as he ventured into acting, comedy, DJ and even produced music.

Soon after the news of his death broke, condolences from the music fraternity poured in. Flea, bassist of the band Red Hot Chilli Peppers, wrote on Twitter: “All of my love to the one of a kind bringer of love and joy, the great Biz Markie. I will bang his records til the day I die and my heart will rejoice. I love you Biz.”

Fans of the legend will remember him as one of the true pioneers of Hip hop music.