Rapper Fatman Scoop ‘had an energy drink’ before collapsing onstage during performance and dying at 53

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Fatman Scoop, known for his electrifying stage presence, reportedly consumed an energy drink before his stage performance on Friday, August 30.

In a heartbreaking turn of events, the music world lost a vibrant force as Grammy-winning DJ Fatman Scoop collapsed and died at the age of 53 after suffering a medical emergency while performing at Town Center Park in Hamden, Connecticut, on Friday.

As fans and fellow artists mourn his untimely death, details are emerging about his final moments and the energy drink that may have played a role in his sudden collapse.

Fatman Scoop allegedly had an energy drink before event

Sharron Elkabas, CEO of Fatman Scoop's public relations firm, revealed that the artist drank an energy beverage before going on stage.

"He had an energy drink before going on stage," Elkabas told The Hollywood Reporter. "He never drank energy drinks, but he did before this show."

Elkabas also confirmed that Freeman is survived by his son, daughter, and brother, as per Daily Mail.

Just hours before his sudden death, Fatman Scoop celebrated the release of his collaboration with musician Dyce Payso, titled 'Let It Go'. The radio personality updated his Instagram followers on Friday, sharing a clip from the music video and promoting the track with, "LET IT GO OUT NOW LINK IN MY BIO ft @fatmanscoop all platforms thank you."

Earlier in the month, Scoop had praised Payso’s talent, saying, "Finished Up A Song/Video With @dyce_payso - sometimes you just know when somebody got 'it' which I think he does." 

He continued, "On top of making a lot of great relationships for himself. Pay attention to dude. I see really good things happening with the young homey. He has the look, the songs, but more importantly- HE WORKS HARD! and u CANT COACH THAT!!"

Fatman Scoop's friends pay tribute

On Saturday morning, Freeman's manager, DJ and producer Birch Michael, announced the rapper's death "with the heaviest of hearts" on social media. The artist's family later issued a statement describing Freeman as "not just a world class performer - he was a father, brother, uncle and a friend." 

They added, "Last night, the world lost a radiant soul, a beacon of light on the stage and in life."

'He was the laughter in our lives, a constant source of support, unwavering strength, and courage."

Born in New York City in 1971, Freeman gained fame through collaborations with stars like Missy Elliott and Mariah Carey in the early 2000s. 

He was known for his deep, powerful voice, his family described him as "the undisputed voice of the club," whose music encouraged dance and positivity.

Scoop had recently ventured into podcasting and reality TV, including a stint on Channel 5's 'Celebrity Big Brother: UK vs USA' in 2015.

The exact cause of death remains unclear, but it followed a medical emergency on stage. Audience footage captured the moment he collapsed, shortly after energizing the crowd with shouts of "Let’s make some noise!" As he moved towards the DJ booth, his breathing appeared labored, and he collapsed after speaking into the microphone.

Emergency responders arrived around 8.33 pm, and Freeman was rushed to the hospital. Hamden Mayor Lauren Garett requested that fans "keep him in your thoughts and prayers."

Tributes quickly poured in, including from the UK's Reminisce Festival, which was set to feature him on September 7. The festival called his absence "profoundly felt" and remembered him as "a cherished member of the Reminisce family."

Missy Elliott paid tribute on X, offering her prayers for Freeman's family and acknowledging his lasting impact on music.

"Fatman Scoop VOICE & energy have contributed to MANY songs that made the people feel HAPPY & want to dance for over 2 decades. Your IMPACT will NEVER be forgotten," she wrote.

Fatman Scoop’s nickname was given by his uncle due to his love of ice cream, contrary to rumors that Lauryn Hill named him. Tributes from artists like Lil Jon, Timbaland, and Fat Joe reflected on their experiences with him, while DJ Questlove simply wrote, "Thank you Scoop!"

Freeman’s touring agency, MN2S, stated, "Scoop was a beloved figure in the music world, whose work was loved by countless fans across the globe. His iconic voice, infectious energy, and great personality made an indelible mark on the industry, and his legacy will live on through his timeless music."

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