Fatman Scoop's cause of death confirmed after rapper dies at 56 during on-stage performance

The hip-hop community is mourning the loss of Fatman Scoop , whose cause of death has now been confirmed following his sudden passing in late August at a Connecticut concert.

The rapper was mid-performance when he tragically collapsed , dying at the age of 56. In the immediate aftermath, his tour manager, Birch Michael, aka Pure Cold, took to social media to share the heartbreaking news.

"It is with the heaviest of hearts I announce the passing of Isaac Freeman III , known professionally as Fatman Scoop," he wrote. "You taught me how to be the man I am today. I love you Scoop, thank you so much for everything you gave to me."

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Pure Cold's emotional Instagram tribute went on: "I am honestly lost for words... You took me all over the world and had me performing alongside you on some of the biggest and greatest stages on this planet, the things you taught me have truly made me the man I am today."

Fox News reports that the Connecticut Chief Medical Examiner's Office disclosed the cause of death, ruling it as natural. The music icon succumbed to hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, reports the Mirror .

Hypertensive heart disease often develops from long-standing high blood pressure, while atherosclerosis is caused by plaque buildup in the arteries which can lead to hardening and narrowing of these vital pathways.

Just days before his passing, he reportedly exhibited no signs of health issues and "sounded on good form" as tributes poured in from across the music industry, including heartfelt words from his long-time collaborators at booking agency MN2S and his representative, Sharron Elkabas.

Regarding Scoop's health, Sharron revealed to the Mirror: "No, he was in good health and spirits. He ate very clean and would juice fresh fruit and vegetables daily. It was part of his hospitality rider."

Furthermore, Sharron, who managed the artist's international engagements but not those within the U.S., also shared with us: "I spoke to him on Monday after he did a show in Paris, and he was in good spirits. He sounded on good form. This news has come as a huge and devastating shock, it's still sinking in."

In a touching reflection on Fatman Scoop's character, Sharron offered a glimpse into the artist's life offstage: "The loveliest guy, he would love to talk on all topics. He was such a people's person and had a way of socially connecting with people from all walks and backgrounds."

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