SiriusXM is sad to report the passing of Biz Markie, legendary rapper, singer, comedian, DJ, producer, SiriusXM host, and more, at 57 years old. Join LL COOL J’s Rock The Bells Radio (Ch. 43) in paying tribute to the Clown Prince of Hip-Hop, best known for his iconic hit “Just a Friend,” which was certified platinum in 1990 and has been sampled over 30 times.
Marcel Theo Hall, better known as Biz Markie, was born April 8, 1964, in Long Island, NY. He released his debut studio album, Goin’ Off, on Cold Chillin’ Records in 1988, featuring the single “Vapors,” which would go on to appear on the Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas video game soundtrack. In 1989, Biz linked up with his cousin, DJ Cool V, and producer Paul C on his second album, The Biz Never Sleeps. The album proved to be a success, as evidenced by “Just a Friend,” his most popular song to date, which became a Top 40 his in several countries.
Biz was a member of the famous hip-hop collective Juice Crew, founded by producer Marley Marl and radio DJ Mr. Magic. He also began making television and movie appearances, including stints on MTV and In Living Color; Men in Black II, alongside Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones; Celebrity Fit Club; and Nick Cannon’s Wild’n Out; as well as hosting a beatboxing segment on the Nick Jr. show Yo Gabba Gabba!
In February 2020, Biz Markie joined the SiriusXM family as the new midday host on LL COOL J’s Rock The Bells Radio, celebrating timeless hip-hop with his unbeatable knowledge and flair.
Join us in celebrating his life and legacy, and mourning this tremendous loss, with news and Biz’s music every hour on Rock The Bells Radio. Also, relive some of his interviews with special guests like DJ Jazzy Jeff, DJ Premier, and more below.
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