Biz Markie, rapper known for Just a Friend, dies at age 57

Hip-hop star known for his personality, beatboxing and freestyle skills scored his biggest hit in 1989

Biz Markie, the New York rapper, beatboxer and producer, has died at age 57.

Markie’s representative, Jenni Izumi, said the rapper and DJ died peacefully Friday evening with his wife by his side. The cause of death has not been released.