Virginia rapper Magoo, who formed one-half of duo Timbaland & Magoo, has died at the age of 50. Magoo’s career spanned collaborations with the likes of Jodeci, Missy Elliot, and Aaliyah.
His wife, Merco Barcliff, confirmed Magoo’s death on Monday (Aug. 15) and told the New York Times that the coroner’s office is currently investigating his cause of death. In addition to his wife, Magoo is survived by his daughter, Detrice Bickham.
Magoo, whose real name is Melvin Barcliff, was born in Southern Virginia where he paved a path for southern hip-hop alongside fellow Virginians Pharrell, Timbaland, and Missy Elliot. He joined forces with Timbaland in 1995 after his early 90s collective Surrounded By Idiots parted ways and his stint with Devante Swing, Jodeci member and producer, dissolved.
“Surrounded By Idiots was genius, it was a space for us weirdos,” Pharrell shared in an Instagram story following the rapper’s death. “Well now you are in the greatest Space there is, was and ever will be; Heaven.”
Missy Elliot also offered some words on Instagram, sharing that Magoo gave her the nickname “Misdemeanor” because “it’s a crime to have that many talents.”
Magoo will be remembered by many as a pioneer, not only in Virginia, but in hip-hop’s entire history.