A Guide to Fatman Scoop
As one of the world’s renowned hype men in hip-hop, we pay tribute to Fatman Scoop.
Isaac Freeman III, better known as Fatman Scoop, was a larger-than-life figure in the music industry. Born in 1968 in New York City, he grew up in Harlem, where he was immersed in hip-hop culture from a young age. Fatman Scoop’s moniker was born out of an old nickname given to him by his uncle, which reflected his love of ice cream.
Fatman Scoop’s booming voice became synonymous with energetic and infectious tracks. His breakout hit, “Be Faithful,” initially released in 1999, unexpectedly surged to No. 1 on the British Billboard singles chart in 2003. The song’s success was fueled by its catchy beats, which sampled Faith Evans’ “Love Like This.” Over the years, Fatman Scoop released three compilation albums, including Fatman Scoop’s Party Breaks: Volume 1, In the Club, and Party King.
As a featured artist, Fatman Scoop brought his signature scratchy bellow to some of the biggest hits of the 2000s. His collaborations with Missy Elliott, Mariah Carey, Ciara, DJ Kool, Arrested Development, and Tech N9ne showcased his ability to elevate tracks with his high-energy vocals. His work on Timbaland, Lil Jon, and Janet Jackson remixes further demonstrated Fatman Scoop’s versatility. In recent years, he appeared on tracks with Skrillex and A$AP Rocky, cementing his status as a sought-after collaborator.
Sadly, Fatman Scoop’s life was cut short when he collapsed while performing at a show in Hamden, Connecticut, on August 30. He was 56. Footage of the incident (which we will not share) showed people attempting to perform CPR on him behind equipment onstage, but unfortunately, paramedics were unable to save him.
We will honor him by introducing a guide through ten songs.
“Where U @?” by Fatman Scoop & Crooklyn Clan
This high-energy track showcases Fatman Scoop’s ability to create infectious hooks. As the leading artist, he brings his signature scratchy vocals to the forefront, blending seamlessly with Crooklyn Clan’s production.
“Be Faithful” by Fatman Scoop
As his breakout hit, “Be Faithful” cemented Fatman Scoop’s status as a solo artist. This song features his distinctive vocals and a catchy beat, making it a staple of early 2000s hip-hop.
“It Takes Scoop” by Fatman Scoop & DJ Kool
This track highlights Fatman Scoop’s ability to blend hip-hop with other genres. With DJ Kool’s production interpolating “It Takes Two,” Fatman Scoop brings his energetic vocals to the table, creating a unique fusion of styles.
“Drop” by Timbaland & Magoo feat. Fatman Scoop
Fatman Scoop adds his signature ad-libs to this Timbaland-produced track as a featured artist. His contribution elevates the song’s energy, making it a standout in Timbaland’s discography; hence, we showed the opening dance scene to You Got Served.
“It’s Like That” by Mariah Carey feat. Jermaine Dupri & Fatman Scoop
Fatman Scoop’s vocals bring a new level of energy to this Mariah Carey hit. His collaboration with Jermaine Dupri and Mariah Carey showcases his ability to work with artists from different genres.
“Lose Control” by Missy Elliott feat. Ciara & Fatman Scoop
This Grammy-winning track features Fatman Scoop’s signature vocals, blending seamlessly with Missy Elliott’s production and Ciara’s smooth delivery.
“Onslaught 2” by Slaughterhouse feat. Fatman Scoop
As a featured artist, Fatman Scoop brings his energetic vocals to this Slaughterhouse track. His contribution adds a new level of intensity next to the esteemed lyrical MCs.
“The Invitation” by Saigon feat. Q-Tip & Fatman Scoop
Fatman Scoop’s vocals bring a unique flavor to this Saigon track featuring Q-Tip. His collaboration with these artists showcases his ability to work with underground and alternative hip-hop acts.
“We Came to Party” by LL Cool J feat. Snoop Dogg & Fatman Scoop
This track features Fatman Scoop’s signature ad-libs and energy on the hook, blending seamlessly with LL Cool J’s aggressive flow and Snoop Dogg’s laid-back delivery.
“Pro Freak” by Smino feat. Doechii & Fatman Scoop
Fatman Scoop brings his signature vocals to this uptempo Smino track.
