A Houston-based rapper known by his stage name Big Pokey died at the age of 48 after collapsing during a performance in Texas, according to a local official.
The incident took place on Sunday, June 18, in Beaumont, Texas, where the rapper, born Milton Powell, was performing at a venue named Pour09.
Tom Gillam III, a Jefferson County justice of the peace, confirmed Powell’s death and said that an autopsy will be conducted to find out the cause of death. Powell was a prominent figure in the Houston hip-hop scene and was known for his affiliation with the Screwed Up Click, a rap collective founded by the late DJ Screw.
Min Dai, the owner of Pour09, informed the Houston Chronicle that the police were present at the venue and were able to provide immediate medical assistance to Powell. Emergency responders later rushed him to a local hospital.
Big Pokey’s official Instagram page released a statement regarding his passing, stating that he was “well loved by his family, friends, and his loyal fans.”
The hip-hop community has expressed its grief over Powell’s death through numerous tributes on social media. Fellow Houston rapper Bun B was among those who honored Big Pokey. In an Instagram post, Bun B described Powell as “one of the most naturally talented artists” in Houston and referred to him as “one of the pillars of our city.”
Powell’s contributions to the Houston hip-hop scene were instrumental in elevating its prominence, and he leaves behind a legacy of dedicated fans and fellow artists.
