Rapper Fatman Scoop dies after collapsing on stage in Connecticut

US rapper Fatman Scoop has died after collapsing on stage during a performance in Connecticut on Friday (August 30).

According to Mayor Lauren Garrett, the 53-year-old, New York-born artist - real name Isaac Freeman III - was headlining a free event in Hamden, Connecticut, when he suffered a “medical emergency” on stage.

The Mayor stated: “Tonight, while performing at Hamden Town Center Park, Isaac Freeman, aka Fatman Scoop, had a medical emergency on stage. He is being transported by ambulance to the hospital. We will provide updates when they are available. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers."

According to Sky News, Scoop had removed his top and walked behind the DJ booth when he “appeared to fall”. Those on stage then attempted to perform CPR on the artist before he was taken to hospital.

Scoop’s tour manager, Pure Cold, confirmed the news the following day, sharing on Instagram that he was “lost for words”, writing: "The things you taught me have truly made me the man I am today".

A family statement was later released, paying tribute to Scoop as a "radiant soul, a beacon of light on the stage and in life". They wrote: "FatMan Scoop was not just a world class performer, he was a father, brother, uncle and a friend. He was the laughter in our lives, a constant source of support, unwavering strength and courage."

In the comments of the statement, the rap community including Snoop Dogg, Sean Paul, Pete Rock, and Ty Dolla $ign, all sent their condolences to the family.

Scoop was best known for his 2003 hit ‘Be Faithful’ sampling Faith Evans's ‘Love Like This’, as well as his collaborations with the likes of Mariah Carey, Janet Jackson, Whitney Houston and Missy Elliott.

His 2005 track ‘Lose Control’ with Missy Elliott went on to win a GRAMMY Award for Best Short Form Music Video on top of a nomination for Best Rap Song.

More tributes have been shared on social media from the likes of Missy Elliott, Questlove, Ciara, and more. Read some of them below.

Check out Fatman Scoop's 'Be Faithful' below.

Becky Buckle is Mixmag's Multimedia Editor, follow her on Twitter