Houston rapper Big Pokey died over the weekend after collapsing on stage while performing in Beaumont, Texas. He was said to be 45.
A video posted on Twitter showed the rapper, real name Milton Powell, falling backward while speaking and holding a microphone at a bar on Saturday.
A post on Big Pokey’s verified Instagram page said he passed away on Sunday, June 18.
“It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of our beloved Milton ‘Big Pokey’ Powell,” the post read.
“He was well loved by his family, friends and 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,” the post continued.
“Big Pokey will forever be ‘The Hardest Pit in the Litter,’” the posted added, referencing the title of his debut album.
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No cause of death was given.
The rapper was born in Houston and was a member of the Screwed Up Click rap collective, according to NBC News.
Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner remembered the rapper on Twitter.
“The City of Houston and I extend our prayers and condolences to our own Screwed Up Click legendary rapper #BigPokey family and friends,” Turner tweeted.
Big Pokey released four studio albums and was a pioneer of the “chopped-and-screwed” style.
Last year he collaborated with fellow Houston rapper, Megan Thee Stallion, on “Southside Royalty Freestyle.”
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