Radio and club DJ Mister Cee, real name Calvin LeBrun, has died, according to a statement released by New York radio station Hot 97. He was 57. No cause or location was given.
“As a family at HOT 97 and WBLS, we’re deeply saddened by the passing of our beloved Mister Cee. He wasn’t just a DJ,” said the statement. “He was a pillar of our stations, bringing joy to countless listeners with his legendary Throwback at Noon and Friday Night Live sets.
“Mr. Cee’s influence stretched far beyond the airwaves, shaping the very fabric of NYC’s DJ culture. Our hearts are heavy as we send our love and condolences to his family and the fans whose lives he touched through his music. Rest easy, Mr. Cee. Your legacy will live forever.”
Mr. Cee was also known as “The Finisher,” and is credited with discovering hip-hop legend The Notorious B.I.G. The DJ was introduced to him by friend DJ 50 Grand. The two then collaborated on a demo, and soon, that led to a meeting with Sean “Diddy” Combs.
“The plan was we were going to redo the basement demo that he and 50 Grand put together,” Cee shared with WBLS 107.5. “Big was very shy. He would always talk with his head down and say, ‘Yo man, don’t be promising me nothing, man. If you say you’re going to do something, do it.’ And I’m like, nah, we’re going to redo the demo.”
Mister Cee would go on to serve as the associate executive producer on Biggie’s debut album, Ready to Die, in 1994.
The Brooklyn-born DJ was known for his work as a DJ for Big Daddy Kane, appearing on Kane’s 1988 debut album, Long Live the Kane. He is heard on the track Mister Cee’s Master Plan.
He moved to radio, hosting Throwback at Noon on Hot 97.
Along with the stations’ tribute, rapper 50 Cent shared an Instagram post remembering the DJ. “????????R.I.P to the legend MR. Cee God bless him, to all his family and friends I send my condolences. ????️”
Big Daddy Kane also shared an Instagram post featuring a throwback image of the two, with the simple caption, “NO WORDS!!! ????????.”
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