The hip-hop DJ known as Mister Cee, hailed as “legendary” for pioneering the genre and championing its rising stars, has died at the age of 57.
No cause of death was given by his family, who confirmed his passing to New York’s Hot 97, the birthplace of his career in the 1990s.
“As a family at HOT 97 and WBLS, we’re deeply saddened by the passing of our beloved Mister Cee,” HOT 97 said in a statement on Wednesday. “He wasn’t just a DJ; he was a pillar of our stations, bringing joy to countless listeners with his legendary Throwback at Noon and Friday Night Live sets.”
Born Calvin LeBrun in 1966, Mister Cee rose up to become one of the most prominent DJs in New York City, most notably as the official DJ for his high school buddy Big Daddy Kane, and for helping launch the career of The Notorious B.I.G. All three hailed from the Bedford-Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn.
During his 21 years at Hot 97, Mister Cee not only influenced radio culture but also helped kick-start the careers of Jay-Z, 50 Cent, Alicia Keys and other well-known R&B and hip-hop artists, the radio station noted. His Hot 97 show “Throwback at Noon” was among the most popular in that time slot.
Stints at 94.7 The Block and Rock the Bells on SiriusXM followed his Hot 97 tenure, the station’s statement said.
Tributes poured in for Mister Cee as the news of his death spread.
“R.I.P to the legend MR. Cee,” 50 Cent wrote on social media.
Hot 97 host Peter Rosenberg was bereft.
“We have lost the iconic Mister Cee,” Rosenberg wrote on X. “I listened to him yesterday and am in complete shock. He was a dear friend to all of us, a wonderful man, and one of the most important and impactful DJs of all time. I love you Cee.”
The radio station’s statement emphasized the ripple effect of Mister Cee’s reign as well.
“Mr. Cee’s influence stretched far beyond the airwaves, shaping the very fabric of NYC’s DJ culture,” Hot 97 said. “Our hearts are heavy as we send our love and condolences to his family and the fans whose lives he touched through his music. Rest easy, Mr. Cee. Your legacy will live forever.”
“Sometimes you’re only here for what seems like a short time. But when you make the most of it, life is truly something out of this world!” Skip Dillard, brand manager at 94.7, said in a statement. “DJ Mister Cee did just that. He has passed away, but leaves a legacy none of us privileged to have worked with him will EVER forget. Rest in peace my friend. We’ll be there for your family and millions of fans.”
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