Hip-Hop Mourns Passing of Magoo, Renowned Virginia Rapper
The hip-hop community is grieving after the untimely passing of Virginia rapper Magoo, who was one-half of the famous rap duo Timbaland and Magoo. The artist, whose real name was Melvin Barcliff, was just 50 years old at the time of his death. The news was first confirmed by the estate of producer Static Major and singer Black of Dru Hill on August 13, although the cause of death is still unknown.
Magoo rose to fame in the mid-1990s with his witty lyrics and unique tone, alongside Timbaland, Missy Elliott, and Static Major. They are credited as trailblazers who put Virginia on the map in the music industry.
The rap duo’s most well-known hit is Up Jumps Da’ Boogie from their debut album, Welcome To Our World. They went on to release two more studio albums, Indecent Proposal and Under Construction, Part II, before Magoo stepped away from the music industry.
Despite finding success with Timbaland, Magoo chose to step away from the limelight to maintain a sense of normalcy in his life. In a 2020 interview with YouKnowIGotSoul.com, he expressed the challenges of being a celebrity and the lack of time to enjoy the fruits of his labor with his family.
Magoo’s passing has been deeply felt by his collaborators and those who knew him best. Timbaland took to Instagram to reflect on their shared memories, sharing videos alongside heartfelt captions that paid tribute to his late friend. Pharrell Williams also shared a touching post on his Instagram Story, reminiscing on their days as the trio S.B.I. and their shared love for A Tribe Called Quest.
The news of Magoo’s passing has also elicited emotional responses from other industry figures. R&B singer Ginuwine expressed his heartbreak, sharing that losing someone he loves makes him question the pain and consider his own mortality. Missy Elliott, who was given the name Misdemeanor by Magoo, also paid tribute to her late friend, recalling his support from the beginning of her career.
Throughout his career, Magoo collaborated with notable artists such as Aaliyah and Tweet. He was also known for being part of Da Basement Cru, an R&B/hip-hop collective curated by Jodeci’s DeVante Swing.
Magoo’s passing is a significant loss for the hip-hop community, as his contributions as an artist and performer will be remembered and celebrated. As fans mourn the loss of this renowned Virginia rapper, they will forever cherish the music and memories he has left behind.
