On August 31st, New York City will officially recognize Biz Markie Day in honor of the late rapper. A ceremony was held at Marcus Garvey Park Amphitheater to mark the proclamation, as reported by the Amsterdam News New York on October 10th. The event featured performers who were inspired by Biz Markie, including DJ Hollywood, D. Cross, and Oran Juice Jones. During his set, Jones took a moment to reflect on Biz Markie’s influence on Hip-Hop, emphasizing the importance of the people you meet along the way. He fondly remembered Biz Markie as a beautiful person who made a lasting impact on those around him.
Born and raised in Harlem, New York City, Biz Markie spent most of his childhood on Long Island.
During the celebration of Biz Markie Day, Laurie Cumbo, the Commissioner of Public Affairs in New York City, took the stage and read the official proclamation of the day. Afterward, Tara Hall, Biz Markie’s widow, addressed the emotional crowd who had gathered for the occasion. Tara expressed her deep gratitude for the overwhelming love and support that her late husband was receiving, stating, “I’m so touched right now, I almost was in tears because of the love he’s receiving.”
In 2021, Hall was by Biz Markie’s side when he passed away. Biz Markie, also known as the “Clown Prince of Hip-Hop,” had been battling health issues related to his Type 2 diabetes for over a decade.
Biz Markie, who rose to fame with his hit song “Just A Friend” in 1989, was a beloved figure in the Hip-Hop community. He was known for his upbeat personality and support of fellow artists like Roxanne Shante. Unfortunately, Markie fell ill and was hospitalized in April 2020. Later, in December 2020, it was revealed that he had suffered a stroke and was undergoing rehabilitation after going into a diabetic coma. Sadly, Markie passed away on July 16, 2021, at the age of 57, at a hospital in Baltimore. His legacy as a talented musician and a kind-hearted individual will continue to live on.
Before his passing, the late rapper had discussed the mishandling of his type 2 diabetes. He shared with USA Today what his physician had warned could occur as a consequence.
As he recollected the conversation, he vividly remembered the fear that consumed him upon hearing the possibility of losing body parts. His mind raced with all the potential scenarios that could come to fruition. “A lot of things could happen,” he said, his tone laced with trepidation.
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