American rapper Big Pokey has died at the age of 45 after collapsing on stage during a concert in Beuamont, Texas on Saturday night (17). The information was published by the website TMZ.
“It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of our beloved ‘Big Poke’ Milton Powell,” a rep for the artist told the publication.
The cause of death was not disclosed. TMZ reports that shortly after his collapse, a nurse attempted to revive the musician, but to no avail. Big Pokey was subsequently taken to a hospital but did not survive.
Big Pokey was interacting with a DJ during the performance when he passed out. The musician sighed briefly into the microphone before losing his footing and falling unconscious onto the stage.
“In the coming days we will be releasing information on how he celebrates life and how the public can pay his respects to him. We ask that you respect his family and their privacy at this difficult time,” concluded the Big Pokey rep.
Big Poke was one of the most important names in local rap, TMZ reported. The works of the artist, who has more than 177,000 followers on Instagram, are important in popularizing the music style in the Texas area, the publication said.