October 20th 2023.
Legendary music producer Mark Howard James, known to hip-hop heads as DJ Mark the 45 King, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 19, days after his 62nd birthday. The news was shared on Instagram by DJ Premier who wrote, "Mark is responsible for so many classics and was a member of the Iconic Crew FLAVOR UNIT. His sound was unlike any other from his heavy drums and his horns were so distinct on every production."
The world was introduced to Queen Latifah and The Flavor Unit in part because of the production skills of DJ Mark the 45 King. His production was heard on her debut album, All Hail the Queen, which included hit songs such as “Ladies First,” “Wrath of My Madness,” and “Dance For Me.” The Queen acknowledged him on her Facebook page, writing, "I love you, Mark. Thank you for everything!!! Thank you for teaching me, taking me under your wing, teaching me about this thing called hip-hop, and so much more!"
DJ Mark the 45 King was also responsible for the sound of Jay-Z's hit that catapulted his career: “Hard Knock Life”, and the Eminem hit, “Stan.” Eminem thanked the producer on his X account, writing, "Legends are never over. #RIP Mark Howard James aka The 45 King … I’m 4ever grateful!!!"
At the time of his passing, the cause of death has not yet been disclosed. His legacy, however, will continue to live on through his music. DJ Mark the 45 King will be dearly missed by his fans and colleagues, many of whom have taken to social media to express their condolences.
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