Sugarhill Gang’s Big Bank Hank Dead at 57
The group is known for their influential hit “Rapper’s Delight."
— -- The rap world lost one of its founding members today when the Sugarhill Gang's Big Bank Hank aka Henry Jackson died at 57.
The group's other members Wonder Mike and Master Gee confirmed the news on their Facebook page with a throwback pic of the three together, captioned "RIP Henry Jackson aka Big Bank Hank."
On Instagram, Wonder Mike, born Michael Anthony Wright, and Master Gee, Guy O'Brien, once again posted similar sentiments of loss.
"So sad to hear of our brother's passing. Rest In Peace, Big Bank Hank #WeCreatedHistory #RappersDelight #8thWonder #Apache #RIPBigBankHank," the two wrote.
David Mallie, who manages the group's other members, told Fox News that Jackson died from kidney complications due to cancer.
Mallie told USA Today that Jackson's health had declined over the last few years due to chemotherapy and dialysis treatments.
The Sugarhill Gang are known for their influential 1979 hit “Rapper’s Delight” that is widely regarded as one of the first rap songs.
TMZ was the first to report the news of Jackson's death.