News
June 18, 2023 | 3:34 p.m
Legendary Houston rapper Big Bucky has died after suddenly collapsing on stage while performing at a bar in Beaumont on Saturday night. He was 45 years old.
Dramatic footage from the night of the concert shows Big Pokey panting into a microphone amidst a lyric while rapping at Pour 09 Bar.
He then falls on his back as members of the audience look on in shock.
Paramedics rushed the stage and performed CPR before taking the rapper to a nearby hospital shortly after midnight.
The authorities confirmed that he died shortly after the accident.
The cause of his death has not yet been released.
Big Pokey – real name Milton Powell – was best known locally as a founding member of the Houston rap scene with the group Screw up Click.
The artist gained fame for his debut solo album “The Hardest Pit in the Litter” in 1999.
He has released several albums and collaborations over the years, the latest being the 2021 album “Sensei”.
“It is with great 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 Tell KPRC Click2Houston.
He was so much loved by his family, friends and loyal fans. In the coming days, we will be posting about his celebration of life and how the public can pay his respects. We ask that you respect his family and their privacy during this difficult time. Big Pokey will forever be his toughest hole in the trash! “
Houston rappers responded with an outpouring of support for a man they described as “low-key” and extremely talented.
“I wasn’t ready for that,” rapper Bun B wrote on Instagram. “Low key, unassuming mountain for a man moved with honor and respect. It was easy to love and hard to hate. He would stop what he was doing and go home. One of the corners of our city. If a human heart of gold. Senior member of SUC. There will never be another and we will miss him dearly. We love and honor you, Sensei. Rest in heaven.
Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner joined the tribute, tweeting: “The City of Houston and I extend our prayers and condolences to the family and friends of the legendary Screwed Up Click #BigPokey rapper.”
“Although many called him ‘low key,’ his presence was larger than life in helping launch the hip-hop scene nationally. We are grateful.”
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