Milton Powell, better known by his stage name Big Pokey, was a Houston rapper who was one of the original members of the Screwed Up Click, a rap collective led by DJ Screw. He was known for his chopped and screwed music style, which slowed down the tempo and pitch of songs to create a distinctive sound. He was also featured on Paul Wall’s hit single “Sittin’ Sidewayz” in 2005.
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How Did Milton Powell Die?
According to 12 News Now, Milton Powell died of a heart attack on June 18, 2023, at the age of 48. He collapsed while performing at a bar in Beaumont, Texas, for a Juneteenth celebration. He was taken to a hospital in the city and died overnight. An autopsy found that he had atherosclerosis and hypertensive heart disease.
What Was Milton Powell’s Career?
Milton Powell was born on November 29, 1974, in Houston, Texas. He attended Yates High School, where he played football and became close friends with George Floyd. He started rapping in the early 1990s and joined DJ Screw’s Screwed Up Click, which included other Houston rappers such as Lil’ Keke, Fat Pat, and Z-Ro.
He made his solo debut in 1999 with his album Hardest Pit in the Litter, which reached number 72 on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. He followed up with D-Game 2000 in 2000, Tha Collabo with The Wreckshop Wolfpack in 2001, and Da Sky’s da Limit in 2002. His last studio album was Sensei, released in 2021.
He also collaborated with other artists such as E.S.G., Lil C, and Big Moe. He appeared on DJ Screw’s famous mixtape “June 27th Freestyle”, which is considered a landmark album in chopped and screwed hip hop. He also gained mainstream exposure when he was featured on Paul Wall’s “Sittin’ Sidewayz”, which peaked at number 93 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
How Did The Rap Community React To Milton Powell’s Death?
Milton Powell’s death shocked and saddened many fans and fellow rappers who paid tribute to him on social media. Paul Wall wrote on Twitter: “Rest In Peace to my brother Big Pokey. One of the greatest to ever do it. A Houston legend and pioneer.” Lil’ Keke posted on Instagram: “RIP to my brother Big Pokey. You will be missed but never forgotten. You are a legend and an icon in this rap game.”
DJ Screw’s sister Michelle Wheeler also expressed her condolences on Facebook: “My heart is heavy today as I learned of the passing of another SUC member Big Pokey. He was like a brother to me and my family. He always showed love and respect to me and my brother DJ Screw. He was a talented rapper and a humble person. I pray for his family and friends during this difficult time.”
Milton Powell is survived by his wife and three children. His funeral service will be held on June 25 at the Greater Grace Outreach Church in Houston.
