Houston rap legend Big Pokey has reportedly passed away at the age of 45.
A video of the rapper passing out on stage while performing in Beaumont, Texas, surfaced on social media early Sunday. The footage left fans understandably worried about his well-being.
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UGK rapper Bun B confirmed Big Pokey’s passing in an Instagram post.
“I wasn’t ready for this,” he wrote. “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.”
UGK added, “There will never be another and will be missed dearly. We love and honor you Sensei. Rest in heaven.”
So far, no cause of death has been released.
Big Pokey, real name Milton Powell, began his rap career in the early 90s. He got his start alongside DJ Screw and was one of the original members of Screwed Up Click. Big Pokey dropped his debut album Hardest Pit in the Litter in 1999 and later featured on Paul Wall’s 2005 track “Sittin’ Sidewayz,” which peaked at No. 93 on the Billboard Hot 100.
In addition to his music career, Big Pokey made appearances in the films Soldiers United For Cash and Dirty Third 2: Home Sweet Home.
