Fatman Scoop, the renowned hip-hop artist known for his hit “Be Faithful” which topped European charts in the early 2000s, passed away at the age of 53 after collapsing on stage during a performance in Connecticut. Officials and his family confirmed the news, stating that the cause of his death is currently unclear.
The incident occurred at Hamden Town Center Park, where he suffered a medical emergency on Friday evening. Efforts from concertgoers and paramedics were made to assist him before he was transported to a nearby hospital, as stated by Hamden’s chief of staff, Sean Grace, and Mayor Lauren Garrett shared the news on social media.
In a heartfelt message on Instagram, his family described him as a “radiant soul” and a “beacon on stage and in life.” His distinctive gravelly voice and energetic presence made him a key figure in club music during the 2000s. While he was known as the “voice of the club,” his family remembered him as a source of laughter and unwavering strength, expressing that his joy and generosity would be greatly missed.
Born Isaac Freeman III in Harlem, New York City, Fatman Scoop shot to fame with “Be Faithful” in 1999, a song that gained significant traction in Europe following its 2003 re-release, reaching No. 1 in the U.K. and Ireland. In 2004, he showcased his mentoring skills on the U.K. television show “Chancers” and participated in “Celebrity Big Brother 16: UK vs USA” in 2015.
Fatman Scoop collaborated with Missy Elliott on the summer hit “Lose Control” in 2005, which also featured Ciara and won a Grammy for Best Short Form Music Video. His prominent collaborations included tracks with Mariah Carey, Timbaland, David Guetta, and Skrillex, among others. In 2018, he reunited with Elliott and Ciara for a remix of “Level Up.”
Missy Elliott honored Scoop’s legacy on social media, commending his voice and energy while emphasizing the happiness he brought to many over the years. His booking agency, MN2S, highlighted his enthusiasm for music and the significant impact he made in the industry. A representative from the agency expressed disbelief at his passing, recalling a recent conversation where he was in great spirits.