Legendary Houston rapper Big Pokey has died after collapsing on stage over the weekend.
The artist behind the hits like ‘Change Your Life’, ‘Keep My Name Out Yo Mouth’ and ‘Sittin’ Sideways’ was just 45 years old.
The rapper, whose real name was Milton Powell, was in the middle of a performance at Beaumont in Texas when he fainted on stage and had to be rushed to hospital.
Many captured the moment on social media where the rapper spoke to the crowd before heavily breathing into the microphone and collapsing.
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He was later pronounced dead at hospital.
His publicist confirmed the news to Click2Houston.
“It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of our beloved Milton ‘Big Pokey’ Powell. Big Pokey passed away on June 18, 2023,” the statement read.
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“He was well loved by his family, his friends, and his loyal fans.
"In the coming days, we will release information about his celebration of life and how the public can pay their respects. We ask that you respect his family and their privacy during this difficult time.
"Big Pokey will forever be ‘The Hardest Pit in the Litter!’”
Many took to social media to post their heartfelt tributes to the late rapper.
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Fellow rapper Bun B penned to Instagram: “I wasn’t ready for this. One of the most naturally talented artists in the city. Low key, humble mountain of a man who moved with honor and respect. He was easy to love and hard to hate. He’d pull up, do what he had to do and head home. 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 missed dearly. We love and honor you Sensei. Rest in heaven.”
Another fan wrote: “Rip to Legend, and I mean LEGEND SUC BIG POKEY we will always keep your name alive.”
While a third shared: “RIP. BIG POKEY who influenced every rapper from Houston.”
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Big Pokey was one of the original members of Houston’s Screwed Up Click and released his first full-length album, Hardest Pit in the Litter, in 1999.
His song ‘Sittin' Sidewayz’ peaked at number 93 on the Billboard 100 in 2005.
Charisa Bossinakis