Missy Elliott, Ciara, and Ludacris lead tributes to Fatman Scoop who died aged 53

Isaac Freeman III, who undertook the stage name Fatman Scoop — most known for his song "Be Faithful", featuring Crooklyn Clan, and collaborations on Missy Elliott’s “Lose Control” and Mariah Carey’s “It’s Like That” — has died after he collapsed during a concert in Connecticut.

"Last night, the world lost a radiant soul, a beacon of light, on the stage and in life," his family wrote in a statement on Instagram to announce the news. “He was the laughter in our lives, a constant source of support, unwavering strength, and courage. Fatman Scoop was known to the world as the undisputed voice of the club. His music made us dance and embrace life with positivity. His joy was infectious and the generosity he extended to all will be deeply missed but never forgotten.”

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Tributes have been pouring in across the music industry, from his peers and collaborators. “Prayers for Fatman Scoop family for STRENGTH during this difficult time,” Missy Elliott wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. “Fatman Scoop VOICE & energy have contributed to MANY songs that made the people feel HAPPY & want to dance for over 2 decades. Your IMPACT is HUGE & will be NEVER be forgotten.”

“Rest Easy at @FatmanScoop! You were truly one of the best voices in hip-hop! I’m so glad I got to experience your greatness! We will all miss you greatly,” the Ciara wrote on X. Via Instagram, Ludacris said: “Scoop was one of those people that reminded you what the word LOVE Truly means. It’s an ACTION, and with his ACTIONS he exuded the PUREST form of Passion For HIP HOP. Every human being that he came Into contact with felt that LOVE & that PASSION. THIS is the Type Of LEGACY WE should ALL continue from here on until ETERNITY.”