Rapper Big Pokey Dead At Age 45

Rapper Big Pokey has died after collapsing onstage while performing at a bar. He was 45 years old. 

Footage from the night shows him gasping into the microphone mid-lyric while rapping. He then fell onto his back as shocked audience members could only look on.

Paramedics rushed to the stage and performed CPR before taking him to a nearby hospital just after midnight.

Authorities confirmed he had died soon afterwards, yet no cause of death has been revealed yet.

Real name Milton Powell, was a renowned member of the Houston rap scene and gained prominence for his 1999 debut album 'The Hardest Pit in the Litter.'

He had since released multiple albums and collaborations, most recently his 2021 album 'Sensei.'

“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."

“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!'”

Fellow rappers from Houston have spread an outpour of support to the man they described as "low key" and immensely talented.

Rapper Bun B said, “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.”

Mayor of Houston Sylvester Turner said, “The City of Houston and I extend our prayers and condolences to our own Screwed Up Click legendary rapper #BigPokey family and friends.”

“Though many called him ‘low key’, his presence was larger than life in helping to catapult our hip hop scene nationally. We are grateful.”