‘Be Faithful’ Rapper Was 53

Fatman Scoop, the rapper known for his 1999 hit “Be Faithful” and who worked with artists such as Missy Elliott and Mariah Carey, has died. He was 53.

Fatman Scoop, real name Isaac Freeman III, died after collapsing on stage during a concert Friday night in Connecticut. He was performing at Hamden Town Center Park when he had a “medical emergency on stage,” Mayor Lauren Garrett confirmed in a post on Facebook.

The hip-hop artist’s talent agency MN2S confirmed his death to Variety on Saturday. A cause of death was not disclosed.

“Scoop was a beloved figure in the music world, whose work was loved by countless fans across the globe,” MN2S CEO Sharron Elkabas said in a statement. “His iconic voice, infectious energy, and great personality made an indelible mark on the industry, and his legacy will live on through his timeless music.”

Elkabas said he spoke to Fatman Scoop “just a few days ago, and he was in such good spirits. It’s hard to believe he is no longer with us.”

Fatman Scoop’s family also shared a statement on the rapper’s official Instagram page on Saturday, writing, “Last night, the world lost a radiant soul, a beacon of light on the stage and in life.”

His family continued: “He was the laughter in our lives, a constant source of support, unwavering strength and courage. FatMan Scoop was known to the world as the undisputed voice of the club. 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.”

Fatman Scoop rose to prominence after the release of “Be Faithful,” featuring and produced by hip-hop duo the Crooklyn Clan. Its 2003 re-release topped the singles charts in the U.K. and Ireland.

The rapper was known for his features on hit songs, including Mariah Carey’s “It’s Like That” in 2005 and Missy Elliott’s “Lose Control” the same year. The Elliott track won the Grammy for best short form music video, as well as scored a Grammy nomination for best rap song.

“Prayers for Fatman Scoop family for STRENGTH during this difficult time,” Elliott wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “Fatman Scoop VOICE & energy have contributed to MANY songs that made the people feel HAPPY & want to dance for over 2 decades. Your IMPACT is HUGE & will be NEVER be forgotten.”

Fatman Scoop also appeared on tracks by Timbaland (“Drop”), Skrillex (“Recess”), Ciara (“Level Up” Remix) and more. He recently collaborated with rapper Tech N9ne on the single “No Popcorn,” which dropped in July of this year.