Dwight "Heavy D" Myers (1967-2011)

To prove the adage that celebrity deaths usually come in groups of three, the trifecta is completed today with news of the passing of rapper-actor Dwight Myers, better known by his stage name of Heavy D, at the age of 44. Myers reportedly collapsed in front of his home. Cause of death otherwise is unknown as of this writing.

Heavy D swam against the rising tide, if you will, of gangsta rap in the early 90's, as he dropped rhymes that brought more positive messages. His most successful crossover hit came in 1991 with the bouncy "Now That We Found Love", in which Heavy D & the Boyz are joined by R & B singer Aaron Hall on backing vocals. Heavy D also found time to appear on Michael Jackson's 1992 hit, "Jam", from the CD, "Dangerous". In fact, Heavy D's rap nearly overshadows Jackson's vocals. Toss in guest appearances by Kris Kross and Michael Jordan, and, well, of course it got major airplay on MTV. Heavy D also appeared on Janet Jackson's 1991 hit, "Alright", among other credits.

As time passed, Heavy D ventured into acting, like some of his fellow rappers. In fact, what is likely Heavy D's last film role is the current movie, "Tower Heist", starring Eddie Murphy & Ben Stiller.

Courtesy of Heavy D's VEVO channel, here is "Now That We Found Love".



Now, who would've won a dance-off between Heavy D & MC Hammer? I guess we'll never know. Rest in peace, Heavy D.