Isaac Freeman III, also known as Fatman Scoop, a Grammy-winning rapper renowned for his powerful voice and dynamic performances, collapsed during a performance on August 30, 2024, in Hamden, Connecticut. He was 56.

A Harlem, New York City native, Freeman achieved fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s with his popular single “Be Faithful.” The song, which initially experienced moderate success in the US, surged in popularity in Europe, securing the top spot on the singles charts in the UK and Ireland in 2003.

Known for his unique gravelly voice and infectious energy, Fatman Scoop was a highly sought-after collaborator in the music industry. His contributions featured in several chart-dominating hits, including Missy Elliott’s “Lose Control” featuring Ciara, which won a Grammy for Best Short Form Music Video in 2006. He also made appearances in Mariah Carey’s “It’s Like That” and collaborated with other prominent artists like Timbaland, David Guetta, and Skrillex.

The rapper’s final performance took place at Hamden Town Center Park. Fatman Scoop’s on-stage collapse was confirmed by Sean Grace, the town’s chief of staff. Mayor Lauren Garrett revealed on Facebook that concert attendees and paramedics tried to administer first aid before the artist was hurried to a hospital. The precise cause of death is yet to be disclosed.

Concert footage showed Fatman Scoop interacting with the crowd and approaching the DJ booth moments before the incident. Eyewitnesses reported that his breathing became noticeably heavy just before he fell, dropping the microphone.

Merely hours before his sudden death, Fatman Scoop had celebrated the release of a new single, a collaboration with artist Dyce Payso.

Over his career, the rapper expanded his portfolio beyond music. He featured in the 2004 UK television series “Chancers,” mentoring aspiring musicians hoping to enter the US market. He also participated in reality television, appearing as a contestant on “Celebrity Big Brother 16: UK vs USA” in 2015.

The passing of Fatman Scoop elicited a wave of tributes from fellow artists and industry insiders. His long-time booking agency, MN2S, described him as an artist with “boundless enthusiasm” and a passion for music that made a lasting impression on the industry.

Sharron Elkabas, Fatman Scoop’s representative at MN2S, released a statement saying, “He was in such good spirits. It’s hard to believe he is no longer with us.”

Missy Elliott, a close collaborator and friend, utilized social media to express her sorrow and admiration for the late rapper. She extolled Scoop’s “VOICE and energy” on X, stating, “Your IMPACT is HUGE & will be NEVER be forgotten.”

On Instagram, Fatman Scoop’s family released a heartfelt statement, characterizing him as “the undisputed voice of the club” and a “radiant soul, a beacon on stage and in life.” They continued, “His music made us dance and embrace life with positivity. His joy was infectious and the generosity he extended to all will be deeply missed but never forgotten.”

Beyond his public persona, Fatman Scoop was beloved by his family as “the laughter in our lives, a constant source of support, unwavering strength and courage.” They emphasized his lasting legacy “of love and brightness.”

Fatman Scoop’s influence extended beyond music. He made appearances in a variety of media, including a role on the animated series “The Boondocks” and owned an ice cream parlor, showcasing his entrepreneurial side.

In recent years, Fatman Scoop continued to collaborate with both established and upcoming artists. In 2018, he reunited with Missy Elliott and Ciara for a remix of Ciara’s “Level Up.” His most recent musical endeavor was a collaboration with Tech N9ne on the 2024 single “No Popcorn,” demonstrating his ongoing relevance in the hip-hop scene.

Throughout his career, Fatman Scoop’s contributions to the music industry were significant. His ability to animate audiences and enhance tracks with his unique voice made him a key contributor to numerous hit songs. From club anthems to mainstream chart-toppers, his presence was felt across various genres of popular music.