Photo: Getty Images
Brother Marquis' cause of death has been confirmed days after he suddenly passed away.
According to a report TMZ published on Thursday, June 6, the late artist, born Mark D. Ross, died from a massive heart attack. Chief Deputy Coroner Dantez Robinson of Etowah County Coroner's Office said he passed naturally. The news of his death sent shock waves throughout the Hip-Hop community. Brother Marquis was a prominent member of the revolutionary Miami-based rap group 2 Live Crew alongside Uncle Luke, Mr. Mixx and the late Fresh Kid Ice. Luke took to social media and eulogized the fallen member of the crew.
"My Condolence goes out to the Family of Brother Marquis and so many of his Fans from around the World after learning his passing," Uncle Luke wrote. "We took on so many fights for the culture made Great music together something I would never forget .We had recently got back together to take on another fight to get back our catalog that was stolen from us. We will continue that fight in his name for his Family. The Brother Marquis, that I know would want us to celebrate his life that’s exactly what I’m gonna do. R.I.P My Brother."
Outside of 2 Live Crew, Brother Marquis released his own solo album and worked with several Hip-Hop legends including Rodney-O, DJ Toomp, and Ice-T. Marquis co-wrote and was featured on the original "99 Problems" off Ice-T's Home Invasion album. Following the news of his death, the rapper-actor paid tribute to Marquis on social media.
"Woke up to the news that My homie Brother Marquis of the 2Live Crew has passed away," he wrote. "He was my partner and on the Original 99problems. Sad news.. Too young.. too soon. RIP Homie 🙏"
Brother Marquis was 58 when he passed.