The Hip-Hop community suffered a tremendous loss on this date four years ago when Mark Morales, better known as Prince Markie Dee of the legendary Fat Boys, passed away at the age of 52. His impact on the genre, both as an artist and cultural pioneer, remains undeniable.
As one of the first Puerto Rican rappers to achieve mainstream success, Prince Markie Dee, alongside his groupmates Kool Rock Ski and the late Darren “Buffy” Robinson, helped push Hip-Hop into the global spotlight. Originally known as The Disco 3, the trio gained recognition for their unique blend of humor, charisma, and groundbreaking beatboxing, courtesy of Buffy’s “Human Beat Box” skills. Their rise to fame led them to tour with Hip-Hop icons such as LL Cool J, Run-D.M.C., Whodini, and The Beastie Boys, solidifying their place among the genre’s early stars.
Beyond music, The Fat Boys were also among the first Hip-Hop acts to make the jump to Hollywood. They appeared in the 1985 cult classic Krush Groove, a film that chronicled the early days of Def Jam Recordings, and later starred in the comedy Disorderlies alongside legendary actor Ralph Bellamy. These ventures helped bridge the gap between Hip-Hop and mainstream entertainment, opening doors for future generations of artists.
Though the cause of Morales’ passing was not immediately revealed, his legacy lives on through the music and culture he helped shape. From their chart-topping hits to their unforgettable presence in film, The Fat Boys were instrumental in bringing Hip-Hop into the homes of millions.
Prince Markie Dee’s contributions continue to resonate, reminding fans of a time when Hip-Hop was breaking new ground and uniting people through rhythm and rhyme. Today, we celebrate his life and lasting influence on the culture.