Big Hawk was a prominent rapper from Houston, Texas, who rose to fame as a member of the Screwed Up Click, a rap collective led by the late DJ Screw. He was known for his smooth flow, deep voice, and positive lyrics. He collaborated with many artists in the Houston underground rap scene, such as Lil’ Keke, Z-Ro, Trae tha Truth, Paul Wall, and Lil’ Flip. He also had a successful solo career, releasing several albums and mixtapes that charted on Billboard’s Top Rap Albums list. His most popular songs include “You Already Know”, “Back Back”, and “Swang”.
However, Big Hawk’s life was cut short on May 1, 2006, when he was shot to death in a suspected robbery attempt. He was only 36 years old. His death shocked and saddened the rap community, especially in Houston, where he was regarded as a legend and a leader. His fans and peers paid tribute to him through songs, murals, and memorials. His legacy lives on through his music and his influence on the next generation of rappers.
The Night of the Shooting
According to Billboard, Big Hawk had planned to meet a friend on Monday night, May 1, 2006, but apparently arrived before the friend and walked to the side of the house where he was shot several times by an unknown assailant. He died at the scene. Police did not have a suspect and their only lead involved a witness who saw a white compact car with tinted windows nearby shortly after the shooting.
The motive for the killing was unclear, but some speculated that it was a robbery gone wrong. Big Hawk was known to wear expensive jewelry and drive flashy cars, which may have attracted unwanted attention from criminals. However, others suggested that it was a targeted hit by someone who had a personal grudge against him. No one has been arrested or charged for his murder to this day.
The Impact of His Death
Big Hawk’s death sent shockwaves throughout the rap world, especially in Houston, where he was revered as one of the pioneers and pillars of the local scene. He was one of the original members of the Screwed Up Click, a group of rappers who popularized the chopped and screwed style of music that slowed down and distorted beats and vocals to create a hypnotic sound. He was also the brother of Fat Pat, another influential rapper who was killed in 1998.
Big Hawk’s death marked another tragic loss for the Screwed Up Click, which had already suffered the deaths of DJ Screw in 2000 and Big Moe in 2007. Many fans and fellow rappers mourned his passing and expressed their condolences through social media, radio shows, and interviews. Some of his close friends and collaborators also dedicated songs and albums to him, such as Trae tha Truth’s Life Goes On (2007), Z-Ro’s Angel Dust (2012), and Lil’ Keke’s Money Don’t Sleep (2014).
Big Hawk’s death also sparked a movement to end violence and promote peace in the rap community. Many rappers called for unity and respect among artists and fans, and urged people to stop the cycle of bloodshed that had claimed so many lives. Some also organized events and initiatives to raise awareness and funds for Big Hawk’s family and other victims of gun violence.
The Legacy He Left Behind
Big Hawk may be gone, but his music and his spirit remain alive in the hearts and minds of his fans and peers. His discography spans over a decade and includes several classic albums and mixtapes that showcase his talent and versatility as a rapper. His songs touch on various topics such as love, loyalty, struggle, success, and spirituality. His voice is distinctive and recognizable among many other rappers in the genre. His flow is smooth and effortless, yet powerful and impactful.
Big Hawk is also remembered as a positive and humble person who always showed love and support to others. He was a leader and a mentor to many young rappers who looked up to him as a role model. He was a family man who cherished his wife and two sons. He was a friend who always had a smile on his face and a joke to share.
Big Hawk is widely regarded as one of the best rappers to ever come out of Houston, Texas. He is considered a legend and an icon in the rap industry. He is honored and celebrated by his fans and peers through various forms of art and media. He is immortalized through his music and his influence on the culture.
Big Hawk cause of death may have been tragic, but his life was inspiring. He left behind a legacy that will never be forgotten. He is still alive in our memories and in our speakers. He is still H.A.W.K., the Five Star General of the Screwed Up Click. He is still Big Hawk, the Houston Rap Legend.
