Biz Markie’s funeral took place on August 2. Friends, family, and the rapper’s music industry peers came together at Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts in Long Island to celebrate the life of the legendary artist.
Sister2Sister previously reported that Reverend Al Sharpton gave eulogized Markie. The over two-hour funeral service highlighted and celebrated his life and legacy.
“Biz never lost his authenticity. He made being Black mainstream. Wherever he was, he was who he was. He broke down doors that we didn’t even know were there. His heart was with the folks, and the folks knew it because we never stopped being like us. Biz was more than just a friend. He cared for people; he had a way of making us laugh through our pain,” said Sharpton.
“He’d come in a room, and his presence didn’t have to be announced; it was felt,” he said.
”The only thing that will matter three minutes after you’re gone is what you did for others.”
Related Story: Biz Markie To Be Laid To Rest On Monday In New York
Biz Markie’s widow, Tara L. Hall, took the stage and shared some fond memories of her husband and the times they shared with their daughter.
“The thing I’m going to miss the most about him was every time he would see me, his face would just light up with that Chiclet, toothy smile,” said his widow, Tara Hall.
“He made me laugh every day,” she said. “That is not hyperbole. That is a fact.”
Markie, known as “Clown Prince of Hip Hop,” born with the name, Marcel Theo Hall, was famous for his unique, funny, and clever way of rhyming, which switched between rapping, singing, and beat-boxing.
His most famous song, “Just a Friend,” is featured on his second studio album, “The Biz Never Sleep.”
As previously reported, the iconic artist passed away at age 57 of complications due to diabetes.
