Melvin Barcliff, best known as rapper “Magoo” who often worked with hip-hop producer Timbaland and Missy Elliot, has died at age 50.
Magoo rose to fame through his collaborations with Timbaland, whom he worked with since 1998. Prior to teaming up with Timberland, Magoo covered artists like New Edition in talent shows, and at the time, Magoo had more experience than Timbaland who had yet to release any records. The duo later signed with Blackground Records, where Magoo and Timbaland produced their biggest single “Up Jumps Da Boogie,” which featured Aaliyah and Missy Elliot.
After the duo’s collaboration, they released four albums and were the first to establish a legendary hip-hop network in Virginia. Magoo, together with Timbaland, later featured artists on their album like Jay-Z, Ludacris, Brandy, Twista, Da Brat, Wyclef Jean, and Ginuwine.
Several artists have expressed their condolences for their fellow rapper, friend, and family member.
Timbaland posted about Magoo’s death on social media on Monday:
This one hits different… long live Melvin aka magoo !!! Tim and Magoo forever… rest easy my king.
Details and the cause of Magoo’s death have not yet been disclosed.
More about Magoo’s contribution to hip-hop and his death can be found here.