March 3, 2010 (WENN) — Rapper ROBERT CRAFTON III has died after suffering a stroke at the age of 47. The musician, also known as Chilly B, died on February 23, 2010 in Brooklyn, New York. He also suffered from diabetes and kidney problems.
The bassist, songwriter and rapper joined hip-hop group Newcleus in the 1980s, and helped redefine the sound of electro-pop.
The group, founded by Ben Cenac and cousins Monique and Pete Angevin, enjoyed hits including “Jam on It” in 1984 – the same year they shared a bill with Run-DMC, Whodini, the Fat Boys and Kurtis Blow on U.S. concert tour Fresh Fest.
Newcleus also introduced the phrase “Wikki wikki wikki,” used as onomat opoeia to denote a DJ scratching a needle on a record.
Crafton’s last performance with Newcleus was in June (09) at Freestyle Extravaganza, a multi-artist show in New York. He is survived by his wife, Valerie, and four sons.
Related Links
- Myspace Blog– Chilly B of Newcleus passes away at 47
- New York Times– Robert Crafton III, bassist and rapper, dies at 47
- The Music Industry Report– Chilly B of Newcleus passes away at 47 (gives good details on his death)
Best part of Jam on it, as rapped by Chilly B:
“Allow me to introduce myself, my name is Chilly B
And I’m a surefire, full blooded bonafide house rockin’ Jam-On Production MC
If you want the best, put me to the test, and I’m sure you’ll soon agree
That I got no force ?cause I’m down by law when it comes to rockin’ viciously, you see
‘Cause when I was a little baby boy my mama gave me a brand new toy
Two turn tables with a mic, and I learned to rock like Dolymite
Time went by, on this God creation, I knew someday I would rock the nation
So I made up my mind just what to do and I joined with the Jam On Production Crew
So go crazy, go crazy, don’t let your body be lazy
I said don’t stop the body rock till your eyesight starts to get hazy
Clean out your ears and you open your eye, if you wanna hear the music just come alive
If you don’t know how get ready to learn
‘Cause Cozmo’s takin’ his turn to burn”
R.I.P.