The Life and Tragedy of Heavy D
Heavy D, born Dwight Arrington Myers, was a beloved figure in the hip-hop world. Known for his charismatic presence and influential music, his sudden passing on November 8, 2011, left a significant void. However, his cause of death has sparked a lot of debate, even in the comment section of my last video – with people wondering whether his passing was due to a pulmonary embolism or pneumonia.
Cause of Death Controversy
According to reports, Heavy D’s death was initially reported to be caused by a pulmonary embolism, a blockage in one of the lung arteries, which was confirmed by the Los Angeles County Coroner’s office (EW.com) (BET). He also suffered from deep leg vein thrombosis, which likely developed during a long flight from London the day before he passed away (Christian Post). Complicating matters, Heavy D was reportedly medicating himself for symptoms related to pneumonia just before his passing. This led some to speculate that pneumonia might have contributed to his passing (Christian Post). Ultimately, the coroner concluded that while Heavy D had “a touch of pneumonia,” it was the pulmonary embolism that was the primary cause of his passing.
The Christian Post reported in November of 2011:
Legendary rapper Heavy D, known also by his given name Dwight Arrington Myers, may have been struggling with pneumonia before his untimely passing on Tuesday.
The emcee collapsed in the hallway of his building, suffering from shortness of breath. Police arrived to take him to the hospital, but he passed away shortly thereafter.
A cousin, Ruddy Phillips, said Heavy D had “a touch of pneumonia” after coming back from England a few days prior, according to The Daily News. It is currently unknown if this was the cause of his death. An autopsy was performed on the rapper, but coroners were reluctant to release the results.
(Now it makes you wonder WHY coroners were reluctant to release the results. Were they unsure of what really took his life?)
The reason for this, investigators said, was because the 44-year-old rapper was under a medication regimen. However, toxicology reports must be done before the actual cause of death is confirmed.
Ed Winter, Assistant Chief of the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office said “He was taking medication, so we want to see what the levels were.
(Now I do have to add in, that this is the same coroner that did Kim Porter’s autopsy. He passed away in March of 2023 due to unspecified natural causes himself.)
Apparently, the Mount Vernon-raised entertainer knew that his health had declined recently. He went to the doctor the day before his passing with “what appeared to be like flu-like symptoms,” said Winter.
It is unknown what the results of that appointment were, although it is clear it did not help the Grammy-winning rapper survive.
Early Life and Career
Heavy D was born in Mandeville, Jamaica, and moved to Mount Vernon, New York, in the 1970s. His passion for music flourished in this vibrant environment. He formed the group Heavy D & the Boyz, and their debut album, “Living Large,” was released in 1987, quickly gaining popularity.
Rise to Fame
Heavy D & the Boyz became known for their catchy beats and Heavy D’s smooth yet commanding rap style. Hits like “Now That We Found Love” and “Nuttin’ But Love” cemented their place in hip-hop history. Beyond his music, Heavy D was instrumental in bridging the gap between hip-hop and mainstream audiences. His work brought him into collaboration with a young Sean “Diddy” Combs.
Interestingly, before becoming a music mogul, Diddy started as a backup dancer for Heavy D. This relationship blossomed into a professional bond, with Heavy D playing a significant role in helping Diddy secure an internship at Uptown Records, which was pivotal in launching Diddy’s career (REVOLT) (DailyRapFacts). Their professional relationship grew, and Diddy often credited Heavy D for helping him learn the ropes of the music business.
Acting Career and Other Ventures
Heavy D wasn’t just a rapper; he was a versatile entertainer. He took on roles in TV shows like “Roc” and “Living Single,” and movies such as “Life” and “The Cider House Rules.” His charismatic personality and acting chops allowed him to transition smoothly between music and acting, making him a well-rounded figure in entertainment.
Personal Life
Heavy D was known for his warm and approachable demeanor. He was a dedicated father to his daughter, Xea Myers, and his close relationships with friends and family were proof of his caring nature. Despite his larger-than-life persona, he maintained a grounded and humble outlook on life.
Legacy
Heavy D’s impact on music and culture is undeniable. He paved the way for future generations of hip-hop artists, breaking barriers and expanding the genre’s reach. His contributions to music, acting, and his philanthropic efforts left a lasting legacy. Tributes poured in from all over the world after his passing, highlighting the profound influence he had on both the industry and his fans.
Conclusion
Heavy D’s life was proof of his talent, hard work, and the love he had for his craft and his community. While his passing was sudden and surrounded by controversy, his legacy continues to inspire and uplift. His music, his roles on screen, and his contributions behind the scenes remain a vibrant part of his enduring influence. Heavy D will always be remembered as a pioneer and a beloved figure in the world of hip-hop and beyond unlike some other entertainment moguls.
