Houston Rapper Dies After Collapsing

Houston has lost a rap legend and founding member of the Screwed Up Click collective, Big Pokey. The rapper, whose real name was Milton Powell, passed away after collapsing during a performance on June 17, 2023.

Paramedics Attempts to Save Big Pokey

According to reports and videos shared on social media, Big Pokey collapsed while performing at Pour09 Bar & Rooftop in Beaumont, Texas. Paramedics tried to save his life by performing CPR before taking him to the hospital. Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead soon after the incident.

Big Pokey’s Legacy

Big Pokey was a pioneer of the Houston rap scene and gained notoriety through his freestyles on DJ Screw’s early Screw Tapes. He was featured for six minutes on Screw’s 35-minute track ‘June 27th.’ He released six studio albums, with his latest, Sensei, released in 2021. He collaborated with many other Houston rappers throughout his career and was a mentor and friend to many.

Reaction from Peers and Fans

Big Pokey’s sudden passing has shocked his peers and fans who took to social media to share their condolences and pay tribute to the rapper. Southern rap great Bun B wrote on Instagram, “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 honor you Sensei. Rest in heaven.” Other rappers such as Slim Thug also mourned the loss on social media.

Tributes from Local Officials

The loss of Big Pokey has not only impacted the music industry but also the city of Houston as a whole. Mayor Sylvester Turner paid tribute to Big Pokey on Twitter, “Though many called him ‘low key,’ his presence was larger than life in helping to catapult our hip hop scene nationally. We are grateful.”

Big Pokey’s Family Statement

In a statement given to local news station KRIV, Big Pokey’s publicist confirmed his death and said, “He was well-loved by his family, his friends, and his loyal fans.” The publicist also announced that they would release information about his celebration of life and how the public can pay their respects in the coming days. They also requested that people respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time.

Early Life and Career

Big Pokey was born Milton Powell on December 4, 1977, in Houston, Texas. He got interested in rap music at an early age and released his first solo album, ‘Hardest Pit in the Litter,’ in 1999. He gained local fame for his debut album and went on to release five more albums throughout his career.

Collaboration with Other Houston Rappers

Big Pokey was a founding member of the Screwed Up Click collective, which included other Houston rappers such as DJ Screw, Lil Keke, and Bun B. He collaborated with many other Houston rappers throughout his career, including Paul Wall, Mike D, and Trae Tha Truth.

Big Pokey’s Musical Legacy

Big Pokey’s music has had a significant impact on the Houston rap scene. He was known for his slow beats and deep voice, which became a signature style for many Houston rappers that came after him. Big Pokey’s music has also influenced other rappers outside of Houston as well.

Awards and Nominations

Big Pokey didn’t receive any major music awards during his career, but he was highly respected and revered by his peers and fans alike. He was nominated for a Southern Entertainment Award in 2008 for his album ‘Evacuation Notice.’

Personal Life

Big Pokey was a private person and kept his personal life away from the media. He was married and had children, but their identities have not been revealed.

Impact on Houston’s Hip Hop Scene

Big Pokey was an influential figure in the Houston rap scene and helped elevate it to the national stage. He paved the way for other Houston rappers to have successful careers and left a lasting impact on the city’s culture.

Cause of Big Pokey’s Death

Authorities have not yet released a cause of death for Big Pokey. Autopsy results are pending, and fans are eagerly awaiting more information about what caused his sudden and tragic passing.

Celebration of Life and Legacy

Big Pokey’s family and publicist have announced that they will release information about his celebration of life and how the public can pay their respects in the coming days. Fans are expected to turn out in large numbers to honor the Houston rap legend and pay tribute to his impact on the city’s culture.

Coping with the Loss of a Music Legend

Big Pokey’s sudden passing has left his fans and peers mourning the loss of a beloved musician and friend. Coping with grief can be challenging, but it’s essential to reach out for support and talk to loved ones about how you’re feeling.

Conclusion

Big Pokey’s passing has left a significant impact on the Houston rap scene and beyond. He was a trailblazer who helped elevate the city’s hip hop culture to the national stage. Although his life was cut short, his legacy lives on through his music and the impact he had on his fans and peers.

FAQs

What was Big Pokey’s real name?

Big Pokey’s real name was Milton Powell.

What was Big Pokey’s signature style?

Big Pokey was known for his slow beats and deep voice, which became a signature style for many Houston rappers that came after him.

Was Big Pokey married?

Yes, Big Pokey was married, but his spouse’s identity has not been revealed.

Houston Rapper Big Pokey Passes Away After Collapsing On Stage In Beaumont