"Just a Friend" rap icon Biz Markie dies at 57

TMZ

Biz Marke's death Friday, from complications from diabetes, comes two weeks after he was falsely declared dead while under medical care. Known as "The Clown Prince of Hip Hop," Biz Markie's career took off in 1989 after his song "Just a Friend" became a Top 40 hit. Biz Markie was a regular on Crank Yankers and last year had a beat-boxing battle with DC Young Fly on Wild ‘N Out. Biz Markie made numerous TV appearances, from Sharknado 2 to Yo Gabba Gabba! to In Living Color and Eve. Biz Markie also voiced the role of Kenny the Cat on SpongeBob SquarePants. He also performed "Just a Friend" on Empire in 2016 and on the Black-ish Season 3 finale in 2017.