Houston rapper Big Pokey, whose real name was Milton Powell, died after collapsing on stage during a performance in June 2023. The cause of his death has been revealed by the autopsy results, which showed that he suffered a massive heart attack. Here are some facts about Big Pokey’s life, career, and death.
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Who was Big Pokey?
Big Pokey was a founding member of the Screwed Up Click, an influential hip-hop collective of Houston-based artists. He was known for his deep voice and rapid-fire flow, as well as his collaborations with other Houston legends like DJ Screw, Lil’ Keke, and Z-Ro. He released several solo albums, including The Hardest Pit In The Litter, D-Game 2000, and Evacuation Notice. He also appeared on the Billboard Hot 100 chart when he featured on Paul Wall’s single Sittin Sidewayz in 2005. In 2022, he teamed up with Megan Thee Stallion for the Southside Royalty Freestyle.
How did Big Pokey die?
Big Pokey was performing at a Juneteenth-themed event at the Pour09 Bar in Beaumont, Texas, on June 18, 2023. He was rapping one of his songs when he suddenly fell backwards on stage with his microphone in hand. Witnesses rushed to help him and paramedics were called to the scene. He was taken to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead on June 19. According to TMZ, the autopsy results determined that he died from a heart attack caused by hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. This means that he had high blood pressure and plaque buildup in his arteries, which restricted the blood flow to his heart.
How did the hip-hop community react to Big Pokey’s death?
Big Pokey’s death shocked and saddened many fans and fellow artists, who paid tribute to him on social media and in interviews. Some of the notable figures who expressed their condolences and respect included Juicy J, Slim Thug, Lil Flip, Bun B, Chamillionaire, Trae Tha Truth, and E-40. Bun B wrote on Instagram: “Low key, humble mountain of a man who moved with honor and respect. He was easy to love and hard to hate.” Juicy J tweeted: “RIP Big Pokey one of the realest ever.” Slim Thug posted a video of Big Pokey performing and said: “Rest easy big homie you will be missed.”
What is Big Pokey’s legacy?
Big Pokey was one of the pioneers of the Houston rap scene and the chopped-and-screwed sound, which influenced many artists across genres and regions. He was also a loyal friend and a devoted father to his three children. He will be remembered as one of the hardest and most authentic rappers in the game, who never compromised his style or his integrity. As his publicist said in a statement: “Big Pokey will forever be ‘The Hardest Pit In The Litter!’”
