Friends and family gathered in Long Island, New York yesterday (August 2nd) to say goodbye to Biz Markie. Celebrities like Busta Rhymes, Ice T, Fat Joe, LL Cool J, Big Daddy Kane attended the private service, which was held at Patchogue Theater for the Performing Arts.
According to Page Six, rapper Busy Bee said, “Biz was an icon. He is what we call hip-hop. He was peace, love, unity and having fun. That was Biz.”
Reverend Al Sharpton, who delivered the eulogy, referenced Biz's hit “Just A Friend,” saying, But he was more than just a friend. He was our icon. He was more than just a friend. He was our example! He was more than just a friend! He was our star! He was more than just a friend! The hit record doesn’t tell you the whole story. Thank you, Biz! You never let us down! You were more than just a friend.”
Biz's wife Tara Hall said, “The thing I’m going to miss the most about him was every time he would see me, his face would just light up with that Chiclet, toothy smile. Seeing him smile made me smile.”
She continued, “He made me laugh every day. That is not hyperbole. That is a fact.” She also revealed that she received a letter from Barack and Michelle Obama, who offered up their condolences.
Biz, born Marcel Hall, reportedly died from complications of diabetes on July 16th at 57.
