Isaac Freeman III, popularly recognized as Fatman Scoop, a celebrated rapper and hype man, has died following a medical emergency that occurred while he was performing. He was 53 years old.

The news of Freeman’s death was confirmed via a statement on his verified Instagram account on Saturday.

“With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of the legendary Fatman Scoop,” the statement from Freeman’s family expressed. “The world lost a shining light, both on stage and in life, last night.”

YSL News has reached out to Freeman’s representatives for further details.

On Friday, a video from TMZ captured Freeman experiencing a medical emergency and collapsing on stage during a concert at Town Center Park in Hamden, Connecticut.

Hamden Mayor Lauren Garrett confirmed in a Facebook post that Freeman “had a medical emergency while performing” and was taken by ambulance for medical care. “Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers,” she wrote. She also expressed her “heartfelt condolences” to the rapper’s family and loved ones.

“I am thankful to the audience and our paramedics who tried to provide life-saving help,” Garrett stated. “For anyone struggling to cope with Isaac’s loss, particularly after witnessing the tragic events at Town Center Park, we will provide grief counseling through our social worker.”

Throughout his career, Freeman collaborated with well-known artists like Mariah Carey and Missy Elliott, featuring on tracks such as Elliott’s Grammy-winning “Lose Control.” He is also famous for his own hit “‘Be Faithful” from 1999.

Rapper Blxst, who recently released his album “I’ll Always Come Find You” in July, talked with YSL News about incorporating Fatman Scoop in his song “Too Many Friday Nights.”

“I just wanted to relive a nostalgic moment,” he mentioned.

Tributes pour in from Questlove, Timbaland, and more

Many tributes to Freeman surfaced on social media Saturday, with DJ Andrew Hypes expressing on X that the rapper was “one of the most influential voices in the industry.”

Freeman was set to perform at the Reminisce Festival in September. The festival released a statement on Facebook mourning the rapper’s passing.

“Scoop was meant to headline at this year’s Reminisce Festival, and we will deeply feel his absence,” the festival expressed. “Not only was he one of our most beloved performers, but he was also a treasured part of the Reminisce family. His vibrant energy, talent, and infectious positivity will be missed immensely.”

Freeman’s family emphasized he was more than just an exceptional performer; he was also a “father, brother, uncle, and friend.”

“Fatman Scoop was recognized globally as the true voice of the club,” the family continued. “His music inspired us to dance and celebrate life. His infectious joy and generosity will be deeply missed and never forgotten.”

Questlove paid tribute to Freeman in a comment on Instagram, stating, “Thank you, Scoop!”

“I want to express my gratitude to FATMAN SCOOP for representing the true essence of hip hop,” Questlove added in his own post. “You brought joy by allowing us to forget our troubles and live in the moment. Your departure saddens me deeply, but you will forever be remembered, my brother.”

Other artists like Timbaland and Blasterjaxx also shared their condolences on Freeman’s Instagram.

Contributing: Naledi Ushe