The 45 King, an influential New York City hip-hop producer known for his jazzy beats who worked with Queen Latifah, Eminem, Jay-Z and others, died on Thursday. He was 62.

The 45 King rose to prominence in 1987 with his classic breakbeat song "The 900 Number," which has been sampled numerous of times by DJs and rappers, most notably, DJ Kool in 1996 for "Let Me ...

DJ Mark the 45 King, whose famous tracks include '900 Number' and 'Hard Knock Life,' has reportedly died at age 62, according to fellow producer DJ Premier.

No cause of death was cited; he was 62. “It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of my beloved Mentor DJ Mark the 45 King!,” Latifah said in a statement.

Mark Howard James, the producer known as “DJ Mark The 45 King” who worked with such rap hitmakers as Queen Latifah, Jay-Z and Eminem among many others, has died at 62. His manager confirmed ...

Hip-Hop has lost another icon way too soon. DJ Mark the 45 King has reportedly passed away. He was 62. DJ Premier revealed the 45 King’s death via a tribute post on Instagram.

Jay-Z has paid tribute to Hip-Hop producer DJ Mark the 45 King following his death. Manager Paul Martinez confirmed The 45 King died at the age of 62 on Thursday morning (October 19).

The 45 King, who was born Mark Howard James, was a pioneer in the 1980s New York hip-hop scene and worked with early rap stars like the Funky 4. His pseudonym, ...