By Kehinde Okeowo
American rapper, Milton Powell, better known as Big Pokey, has passed away at the age of 45.
The singer died after he collapsed on stage while performing at a bar in Beaumount, Texas, on Saturday night.
His death was confirmed via a statement on his verified Instagram page.
“It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of our beloved Milton ‘Big Pokey’ Powell.
“Big Pokey passed away. He was well-loved by his family, his friends, and his loyal fans. In the coming days, we will release information about his celebration of life and how the public can pay their respects. We ask that you respect his family and their privacy during this difficult time. Big Pokey will forever be ‘The Hardest Pit in the Litter.” the social media post read.
A video posted on Twitter showed the moment when Big Pokey collapsed backward while holding a microphone at a bar.
The rapper, who hailed from the city of Houston, Texas and was a member of the Screwed Up Click rap collective.
Also confirming his death via tweet, Mayor of Houston, Sylvester Turner said his “presence was larger than life in helping to catapult our hip hop scene nationally.”
“The City of Houston and I extend our prayers and condolences to our own Screwed Up Click legendary rapper #BigPokey family and friends,” Sylvester added.
A fellow Screwed Up Click member Bun B also paid tribute to him on social media.
Taking to his Instagram page, he wrote: “I wasn’t ready for this. One of the most naturally talented artists in the city. Low key, humble mountain of a man who moved with honor and respect,” wrote Bun B.
“He was easy to love and hard to hate. He’d pull up, do what he had to do and head home. One of the pillars of our city. If heart of gold was a person.””
TheNiche
