American rapper Biz Markie dies at 57

American rapper Biz Makie has died at 57.

Makie had been suffering from complications of diabetes.

He died in the presence of his wife Tara Hall and medical staff on Friday.

His representative earlier this year revealed that Makie had been managing type II diabetes, but was slowly recovering.

Makie was raised in Harlem and made his break-out with the 1989 hit “Just a friend.”

He also had a stint in movies and comedies.