What was the cause of death for Big Pokey? A tribute to the Houston rap legend

Big Pokey, one of the most influential rappers from Houston, Texas, died on June 18, 2023, after collapsing on stage during a performance. He was 45 years old. His death shocked and saddened his fans, friends, and fellow artists, who paid tribute to his legacy and impact on the hip-hop scene. But what was the cause of death for Big Pokey? Here is what we know so far.

A massive heart attack

According to TMZ, Big Pokey’s cause of death was revealed by Tom Gilliam III, a justice of the peace in Jefferson County, where the rapper was performing. Gilliam said that Big Pokey had a massive heart attack due to hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. This means that he had high blood pressure and plaque buildup in his arteries, which can lead to a blockage of blood flow to the heart.

Gilliam also said that Big Pokey had no signs of trauma or foul play, and that his death was natural. He added that the rapper’s family had a history of heart problems, and that he had been taking medication for his condition.

A tragic end to a stellar career

Big Pokey, whose real name was Milton Powell, was born and raised in the southside of Houston. He started rapping in the late 1990s as an original member of the Screwed Up Click, a rap collective led by DJ Screw, who pioneered the chopped and screwed music style that became synonymous with Houston. The group also included other notable rappers such as Lil’ Keke, Fat Pat, Z-Ro, Trae tha Truth, and Big Moe.

Big Pokey released his debut album, Hardest Pit in the Litter, in 1999, followed by Da Game 2000 in 2000. He gained regional fame for his deep voice, fast flow, and catchy hooks on songs such as “Ball N’ Parlay,” “Who Dat Talking Down,” and “Menage Tois.” He also appeared on DJ Screw’s iconic freestyle known as “June 27th,” which is widely regarded as one of the best rap performances of all time.

Big Pokey collaborated with many other artists throughout his career, such as Slim Thug, Paul Wall, Chamillionaire, E.S.G., Devin the Dude, and UGK. He also worked with newer generations of Houston rappers, such as Megan Thee Stallion, who featured him on her 2022 “Southside Royalty Freestyle.”

Big Pokey was also a close friend of George Floyd, the Black man whose murder by Minneapolis police sparked global protests and a national reckoning with racism and police brutality. Big Pokey wrote an op-ed for the Houston Chronicle after Floyd’s death, calling for justice and accountability. He also attended Floyd’s funeral in Houston.

A legacy that lives on

Big Pokey’s death was mourned by many people in the music industry and beyond. Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner said that Big Pokey’s “presence was larger than life in helping to catapult our hip hop scene nationally.” He also extended his condolences to Big Pokey’s family and friends.

Bun B, another member of the Screwed Up Click and one half of UGK, paid tribute to Big Pokey on Instagram. He described him as “one of the most naturally talented artists in the city” and “a low key, humble mountain of a man who moved with honor and respect.” He also said that Big Pokey was “easy to love and hard to hate” and “one of the pillars of our city.”

Other rappers who expressed their grief and respect for Big Pokey included Lil’ Flip, Trae tha Truth, Slim Thug, Paul Wall, Z-Ro, Lil’ Keke, E.S.G., Mike Jones, Chamillionaire, Scarface, Juicy J, DJ Premier, Talib Kweli, Royce da 5’9″, Rapsody, and many more.

Big Pokey’s fans also shared their memories and appreciation for his music on social media. Many said that he was one of their favorite rappers and that he inspired them to pursue their own dreams. Some also said that they grew up listening to his songs and that they still play them today.

Big Pokey’s legacy will live on through his music and his influence on the Houston rap scene and beyond. He will be remembered as a rap legend who made history with his skills and style. Rest in peace, Big Pokey. You will be missed.

Doms Desk

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