Heavy D (Born Dwight Myers)
May 24, 1967 – November 8, 2011
Heavy D was an influential rapper, actor, and producer whose Heavy D & the Boyz became one of the most popular hip-hop groups during the late ’80s and early ’90s. Born in Jamaica, Heavy D moved with his family to New York when he was just a child. Discovering his talent as am MC, he formed Heavy D & the Boyz in 1986, and within a year, the group became the first act signed to Uptown Records. In 1987, they released their debut, Living Large. Although the album barely cracked the Top 100 album chart, The Source later included it on their list of The 100 Best Rap Albums Ever. The group went on to perform the theme song to the popular television program, In Living Color, while Heavy D himself rapped on Michael Jackson’s “Jam,” and Janet Jackson’s “Alright.” As an actor, Heavy D appeared on such TV shows as A Different World, Roc, Living Single, Law & Order: Special Victim’s Unit, and Boston Public. He was also in the films Life, New Jersey Drive, and 2011’s Tower Heist. On November 8, 2011, TMZ reported that at around 11:30 that morning, a 911 call was made from Heavy D’s home to report that he was unconscious. Paramedics responded and transported him to a local hospital where he passed away. Cause of death was not immediately released. Heavy D was 44 years old. Trouble T Roy of Heavy D & the Boyz passed away in 1990.
Thanks to Ken McCullagh at New Releases Now! for the assist.
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