Rap legend Big Pokey dead at 45 after collapsing on stage

A legendary US rapper has died at the age of 45 after suddenly collapsing on stage while performing at a bar in Texas.

Big Pokey seconds before he collapsed.

Legendary Houston rapper Big Pokey died after suddenly collapsing on stage while performing at a bar in the city of Beaumont, Texas on Saturday night. He was 45.

Dramatic footage from the night of the concert circulating on social media shows Big Pokey gasping into the microphone mid-lyric while rapping at the Pour 09 Bar.

He then falls on his back as shocked audience members looked on.

Paramedics rushed to the stage and performed CPR before the rapper was taken to a nearby hospital just after midnight.

Big Pokey seconds before he collapsed.

Authorities confirmed he died soon after the incident.

His cause of death has not yet been released.

Big Pokey — real name Milton Powell — was locally renowned as a foundational member of the Houston rap scene with the group Screw up Click.

The artist gained prominence for his 1999 debut solo album, The Hardest Pit in the Litter.

He released numerous albums and collaborations over the years, most recently his 2021 album, Sensei.

“It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of our beloved Milton ‘Big Pokey’ Powell. Big Pokey passed away on June 18, 2023,” his publicist told KPRC Click2Houston.

Big Pokey's final studio album, 2021's Sensei.

“He was well loved by his family, his friends, and his loyal fans. In the coming days, we will release information about his celebration of life and how the public can pay their respects. We ask that you respect his family and their privacy during this difficult time. Big Pokey will forever be ‘The Hardest Pit in the Litter!’”

Fellow Houston rappers responded with an outpouring of support to a man who they described as “low key” and immensely talented.

“I wasn’t ready for this. One of the most naturally talented artists in the city,” wrote rapper Bun B on Instagram. “Low key, humble mountain of a man who moved with honour 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. There will never be another and will be missed dearly. We love and honour you Sensei. Rest in heaven.”

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner joined the tributes, tweeting “The City of Houston and I extend our prayers and condolences to our own Screwed Up Click legendary rapper #BigPokey family and friends.”

“Though many called him ‘low key’, his presence was larger than life in helping to catapult our hip hop scene nationally. We are grateful.”

This story originally appeared on Page Six and is republished here with permission.