Remembering Heavy D: The Overweight Lover Who Became a Hip-Hop Icon

#NOLAZINE - Heavy D was more than a successful rapper—he was a groundbreaking entertainer whose confidence, charisma and positive energy helped change the way larger artists were viewed in hip-hop. Known as “The Overweight Lover,” Heavy D proved that talent, personality and stage presence mattered more than fitting the traditional image of a superstar.

Born Dwight Arrington Myers on May 24, 1967, in Mandeville, Jamaica, Heavy D moved to Mount Vernon, New York, with his family as a child. His Jamaican heritage remained an important part of his identity and later influenced his musical style.

Heavy D eventually joined forces with DJ Eddie F, Trouble T. Roy and G-Wiz to create Heavy D & the Boyz. The group became the first act signed to Andre Harrell’s Uptown Records, a label that would later help launch the careers of several important hip-hop and R&B artists.

In 1987, Heavy D & the Boyz released their debut album, Living Large. The project introduced audiences to Heavy D’s smooth delivery, playful personality and ability to make records that appealed to both hip-hop and R&B listeners.

Their popularity grew with songs such as “We Got Our Own Thang,” “Somebody for Me,” “Is It Good to You,” “Gyrlz, They Love Me” and “Nuttin’ but Love.” Unlike many rappers of his generation, Heavy D could deliver confident rhymes without relying heavily on violence or controversy. His music was fun, energetic and often centered on romance, confidence and enjoying life.

The group experienced tragedy in 1990 when dancer Trouble T. Roy died following an accidental fall. His passing deeply affected Heavy D and the other members. Their 1991 album, Peaceful Journey, was dedicated to his memory. Pete Rock and CL Smooth also created the classic tribute “They Reminisce Over You (T.R.O.Y.)” in his honor.

That same year, Heavy D & the Boyz achieved their biggest crossover hit with “Now That We Found Love,” featuring Aaron Hall. The Teddy Riley-produced record reached No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became an international success. More than three decades later, it remains one of hip-hop’s most recognizable feel-good records.

Heavy D’s influence extended far beyond his own group. He appeared on Janet Jackson’s “Alright” remix and delivered a memorable verse on Michael Jackson’s “Jam.” He also performed the popular theme song for the television comedy series In Living Color.

Behind the scenes, Heavy D became an influential music executive. He served as president of Uptown Records and played an important role in developing other artists. He was also credited with encouraging Andre Harrell to give a young Sean “Puff Daddy” Combs an opportunity at the label. Heavy D later helped develop the R&B group Soul for Real and contributed to its successful debut album, Candy Rain.

Heavy D also successfully transitioned into acting. He appeared in television programs and movies including Living Single, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Roc, The Cider House Rules, Life and Tower Heist. His natural charm allowed him to move comfortably between music, television and film.

Later in his career, Heavy D returned to his Jamaican roots by recording reggae music. His 2008 album, Vibes, earned a Grammy nomination for Best Reggae Album. Throughout his career, he received four Grammy nominations, including recognition for “Now That We Found Love” and “Nuttin’ but Love.” Recording Academy

On November 8, 2011, Heavy D suddenly passed away in Los Angeles at only 44 years old. He had recently returned from performing at a Michael Jackson tribute concert overseas. The Los Angeles County coroner determined that his death was caused by a pulmonary embolism—a blockage in his lung connected to a blood clot—with heart disease also listed as a contributing factor. CBS News

His death shocked the entertainment world. Just weeks earlier, Heavy D & the Boyz had reunited for a televised performance at the BET Hip Hop Awards, giving fans one final opportunity to see him command the stage.

Heavy D left behind a legacy of confidence, professionalism and versatility. He helped hip-hop cross into mainstream music without abandoning his personality or cultural roots. He could rap, dance, act, produce records and guide the careers of other artists—all while carrying himself with dignity.

Today, Heavy D is remembered as one of hip-hop’s most lovable pioneers. His music continues to bring joy to new generations, while his career remains proof that a superstar does not have to follow anyone else’s blueprint.

Heavy D truly had his own thing—and hip-hop will never forget him.