Published
Fri, Mar 10, 2023, 20:15
- The vocalist suffered a life-long struggle with diabetes and heart complications.
Legendary drum & bass vocalist MC Fats, real name Wildale Spencer, has died.
The artist's nephew, actor Kiell Smith-Bynoe, confirmed the news via Twitter today, March 10th. While a cause of death has not yet been shared publicly, Spencer had battled a life-long struggle with diabetes. In 2014, he stopped performing after losing a leg the previous year due to his condition.
An influential contributor to sound system culture, MC Fats was a part of UK drum & bass since its inception in the '90s. Known for his jazz and reggae-infused style of toasting, hosting and singing over live sets, he became one of the most prominent voices in drum & bass. In 2014, he released his debut album, We Gotcha, featuring the likes of Bailey, John B and Alix Perez. Spencer also had multiple releases on labels such as V Recordings, Fokuz and Symmetry Recordings.
His health issues were well-known within the electronic music community. In 2018, he was admitted to hospital after experiencing breathing complications during a rare appearance at Sardinia's SUNANDBASS Festival. Nine days later, fans raised over £16,000 to assist with his bills. Despite his medical problems, Spencer continued to make music. His most recent record was the single "Natural Way" with Break in November 2022.
"We are heartbroken to hear about the passing of MC Fats," RAM Records, a label that released a single featuring the late artist, posted on Twitter. "He was a legend of drum & bass and a dear member of our family from the very beginning."
"Gutted to hear about MC Fats, RIP to the absolute legend," drum & bass producer Emperor wrote on Twitter. "Was an honour to work with you."