Rapper Magoo dies at 50, internet mourns loss

Magoo, the famous rapper who was well-known for his work as one half of the duet Timbaland & Magoo, has unexpectedly died at the age of 50 on Sunday, August 13. Playa member Digital Black posted a touching homage to the late rapper on Instagram, expressing shock and sadness over the loss.

He captioned the photo, saying, "Man can't believe this RIP Magoo damn big bro wasn't ready for this at all #superfriends [sic]."

Real name Melvin Barcliff, Magoo rose to fame as a significant member of the hip-hop group Timbaland & Magoo. He was not only closely linked to the well-known music producer, but also to Missy Elliott.

The rapper's journey began in 1989, when he met Timbaland while they were both still teenagers. Magoo and Timbaland were a part of the SBI (Surrounded By Idiots) group at this period of their development, along with Larry Live and a budding Pharrell Williams.

They frequently worked together with other Swing Mob members throughout their careers, including Missy Elliott, Ginuwine, Playa, and Aaliyah.

Despite first meeting when they were kids in 1989, Timbaland & Magoo made the decision to collaborate and form a rap alliance. They are well known for their collaborations with Missy Elliott, yet they are also known for their smash single "Up Jumps Da Boogie," which is only one album in total. "Welcome to Our World," the duo's debut album from 1997, featured the popular song "Up Jumps Da Boogie."

The precise cause of Magoo's untimely death is still unknown .

Another musician with connections to Magoo, Ginuwine, appeared to pay homage to Melvin Barcliff, a fellow native of Norfolk, Virginia. He wrote a message on August 13 that he is distressed by the news and emphasised the significance of showing our loved ones affection given the shortness of life.

“Times get rough but we keep on pushing just to hear some news. I hope it ain’t true …I just want everyone to know that time is short, love who you love and make sure they know it,” he wrote.