I, like so many other people today, am stunned by the passing of rapper Heavy D. His death comes as a great shock to many who knew him and his music. He was just in town 4 weeks ago to perform at the BET Hip Hop Awards, his first performance in 15 years. He sounded happy as he discussed his life, fatherhood, and his upcoming projects. I always admired Heavy D for the music that he created. At a time when the landscape of rap music was changing, Heavy D & the Boyz made what I consider “feel good” rap. It wasn’t sappy or corny, but it wasn’t grimy and violent. It was just him, positive and sincere. If you wanted to hear good music and have a good time, just reach for some Heavy D & the Boyz. Heavy D’s passing also reminds me that this year marks the 20th anniversary of band mate Troy “Trouble T-Roy” Dixon’s death. “Peaceful Journey” was written in remembrance of Trouble T-Roy and now I’ll think about them both each time I hear the song. I’m so pleased to be able to say that through the years I’ve seen his career develop and flourish, from the debut album Living Large to Waterbed Hev, as well as move into movies and television. I’ll miss his music, his affable laugh, and the “diddly diddly diddly dee”. Sadly, Heavy D’s performance at this year’s BET Hip Hop Awards would also be his last, but it proved to be a great reminder to everyone that he was more than a rapper. He was an entertainer.
