As Hip-Hop celebrates its 50th anniversary, of the most music’s legendary producers has reportedly died. 45 King, aka Mark James, is known for founding the original Flavor Unit—a launchpad for the careers of Queen Latifah, Lakim Shabazz, Apache, Chill Rob G, and Latee. The Bronx native (who relocated to New Jersey during his professional career) also went by Mark The 45 King. He famously produced singles for Gang Starr, Diamond D, X-Clan, and more. During the late 1990s and early 2000s, 45 King earned co-production credits on hit records for JAY-Z (“Hard Knock Life”) and Eminem (“Stan”). The latter song was part of the “Album Of The Year”-nominated Marshall Mathers LP.

James had just turned 62 years old earlier this week, on October 16, 2023. No cause of death has been provided. 45 King took is name from collecting, spinning, and sampling 7″ 45 RPM records. He was known for beats that used drums and horns, in particular.

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