The music world is mourning the loss of Isaac Freeman III, popularly known as Fatman Scoop, who died suddenly during a performance in Hamden, Connecticut on Friday night. The 53-year-old rapper, a native of New York, was the main act at the “Green & Gold Party” when he experienced an unexpected medical crisis.
The incident took place while Fatman Scoop was performing at Town Center Park. Videos shared on social media platforms depict the rapper, shirtless and full of life, engaging the crowd before he fell behind the DJ booth. Onlookers were seen administering chest compressions while other artists led the audience in prayer.
Emergency services were notified of the situation around 8:33 p.m. The concert, which was open to the public, had been slated to begin at 7:15 p.m. Fatman Scoop was swiftly transported from the stage to a nearby hospital.
The event had initially been scheduled for the previous month but was delayed due to unfavorable weather conditions. Town Center Park, the concert venue, is located six miles north of New Haven, Connecticut.
Hamden Mayor Lauren Garrett confirmed the rapper’s medical crisis and subsequent hospital admission. In a post on Facebook, she encouraged the public to keep Fatman Scoop in their thoughts and prayers.
Fatman Scoop gained prominence in the 1990s with his club hit “Be Faithful,” which has since amassed millions of views. He also featured on Missy Elliott’s “Lose Control,” which peaked at number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in October 2005.
In addition to his solo work, Fatman Scoop collaborated with several other artists throughout his career. He appeared on Mariah Carey’s Grammy-nominated track “It’s Like That,” and worked with Timberland and Magoo, Nick Cannon, and Skrillex. On the day of his death, Fatman Scoop and Dyce Paso released the official music video for their new song “Let It Go.”