Legendary DJ Mister Cee, a highly influential member of the 90s East Coast rap scene, has passed away at age 57. The cause of death remains unknown.
His employer, radio station Hot 97, confirmed the news of his death. “As a family at HOT 97 and WBLS, we’re deeply saddened by the passing of our beloved Mister Cee. He wasn’t just a DJ,” the station wrote.
“He was a pillar of our stations, bringing joy to countless listeners with his legendary ‘Throwback at Noon’ and ‘Friday Night Live’ sets.”
“Mr. Cee’s influence stretched far beyond the airwaves, shaping the very fabric of NYC’s DJ culture,” the station added. However, despite his passing, those who worked with him remain confident that his legacy will endure.
“Our hearts are heavy as we send our love and condolences to his family and the fans whose lives he touched through his music. Rest easy, Mr. Cee. Your legacy will live forever.”
DJ Mister Cee was Instrumental in Discovering Notorious B.I.G.
Of course, DJ Mister Cee (born Calvin LeBrun) helped discover hip-hop icon The Notorious B.I.G. Mister Cee was introduced to Biggie by his friend DJ 50 Grand, leading to a collaboration on a demo tape.
This demo caught the attention of The Source magazine’s Unsigned Hype column, paving the way for a pivotal meeting with Sean “Diddy” Combs.
Ultimately, Mister Cee took on the role of associate executive producer for Biggie’s debut album, Ready to Die, in 1994.
In addition to unveiling Biggie’s career, the Brooklyn-born DJ also gained recognition for his earlier work as Big Daddy Kane’s DJ. His contribution resonates on Kane’s debut album in 1988, Long Live the Kane. Mister Cee appeared on the track “Mister Cee’s Master Plan.”
However, eventually, Mister Cee became a literal on-air DJ. His career brought him to the forefront as the host of “Throwback at Noon” on HOT 97. Here, he showcased his vast knowledge of hip-hop and exceptional turntable skills.
The station, alongside its sister station WBLS 107.5, honored the legacy of the longtime DJ with a collaborative Instagram post on Wednesday, April 10. “If you grew up listening to Hot 97, this is definitely a loss. Much love to his family. He’ll be missed,” a listener wrote under the post.
Meanwhile, Big Daddy Kane, an early collaborator, expressed his condolences through an Instagram post. He shared a nostalgic photo of the duo, accompanied by the succinct caption, “NO WORDS!!!.”
Veteran rapper 50 Cent also posted a tribute on Instagram to remember the DJ. “R.I.P. to the legend MR. Cee God bless him, to all his family and friends I send my condolences. ”