Timbaland’s former rap partner Melvin “Magoo” Barcliff has died at age 50. Former Playa member Digital Black announced his death on Instagram Monday.
“Man can’t believe this RIH Magoo damn big bro wasnt ready for this at all #superfriends [sic],” he wrote.
R&B singer Ginuwine also confirmed Magoo’s death with a tribute on Instagram.
“I don’t even know how to say anything at this point, I have lost 3 friends now within a month to LIFE and it’s due date. This dude, always pushed me …I will mis you maganooo that’s what we called him ….. totally one of the best ever in my eyes always pressing forward I know we didn’t talk a lot but the love was and will be always there my brotha. I will see you soon bro we all have our date and I’m expecting the bro hug when I get there.”
Jodeci singer and Swing Mob collective member Mr Dalvin wrote on Instagram: “He was such a good guy.”
Timbaland and Magoo met when they were teenagers. They formed Timbaland & Magoo in their hometown of Norfolk, Virginia in 1989. The rap duo recorded three albums after signing to Blackground Records.
Timbaland, 51, made a name for himself as a rap producer crafting hits for Swing Mob collective members like Ginuwine, SWV, Missy Elliott, Jodeci and Aaliyah.
Timbaland & Magoo released a hit single “Up Jumps Da Boogie, featuring Missy and Aaliyah that peaked at #12 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Watch the music video below.
