Rest In Peace Rap Icon Heavy D

Rap legend Heavy D -- one of the most influential rappers of the '90s -- died earlier today ... TMZ has learned.

Heavy D -- real name Dwight Arrington Myers -- was rushed to an L.A. hospital around noon today ... and was pronounced dead at the hospital at 1 PM. He was 44 years old.

We've learned a 911 call was placed from Heavy's Beverly Hills home around 11:25 AM to report an unconscious male on the walkway .

When help arrived, we're told Heavy D was conscious and speaking -- and was transported to a nearby hospital.

He died a short time later.

Cops are investigating the death -- and so far, there are no obvious signs of foul play.

Heavy just performed at the BET Awards in October -- and appeared to be fine.


The 44-year-old star, who found fame with his 1991 hit Now That We Found Love and appeared in several movies, was reportedly rushed to a hospital this afternoon after a 911 call was made from his Beverly Hills home.

Officials tell TMZ that no foul play is suspected, and they are investigating the death.

Heavy D, whose real name is Dwight Arrington Myers, had just performed at two special events last month: the Michael Jackson tribute concert in Wales and the BET Hip Hop Awards in Atlanta.

The overweight star tweeted a simple final message earlier today: "BE INSPIRED!"

Famous fans from the music world took to Twitter to remember him and express shock at his sudden death. A roundup of who's saying what:

-LL Cool J: "May GOD embrace the soul of Heavy D and Bless his family. I respected you Heavy and I always will."

-Eve: "RIP HEAVY D... Sending my prayers and condolences to family and friends"

-Joel Madden: "Heavy D was a truly positive and uplifting man. Rest in peace Heavy. Its a very Sad day today."

-Keyshia Cole: "When I met Heavy D.. He said 'believe U have a good soul, Sing with always having Something to say'"

-Big Boi: "R.I.P Heavy D a true pioneer may god bless your soul"





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