DJ and promoter DJ Bigga Rankin has died at age 50. Atlanta-based record label Think It’s A Game announced DJ Bigga Rankin’s death in an Instagram post, saying the community has lost “one of the most influential voices our culture has ever known.”
“A timeless legacy, an icon, a voice that changed lives, built careers, and inspired generations. There will never be another Bigga Rankin,” DJ Bigga Rankin’s representatives wrote.
What are some of DJ Bigga Rankin’s most notable accomplishments?
DJ Bigga Rankin, legally known as Billy Plummer, is remembered as a trailblazer who paved the way for some of the biggest names in the music industry. According to News 4 Jax, DJ Bigga Rankin promoted Yo Gotti, Rick Ross, T.I., Gucci Mane and many other Southern rap artists. The longtime entertainer also left a mark in Jacksonville in 1990 when he opened the Cool Runnings nightclub.
DJ Bigga Rankin is also remembered as a community advocate who mentored many artists and focused on charitable work. Part of his contributions included his usual back-to-school drives, which his family plans to continue. According to News 4 Jax, the family still plans to provide free backpacks, food and activities at the next Back to School Community Day event on Aug. 8 at A. Philip Randolph Park in Jacksonville.
“I’m always helping people…my mama always told me to give without expecting nothing back…I feel like I was real because I’m always giving,” Bigga said in a previous interview with News 4 Jax.
What happened to DJ Bigga Rankin?
The cause of DJ Bigga Rankin’s death is not known at this time. However, he opened up about his health struggles in recent years after he had COVID-19, then later lost a kidney, which required him to get dialysis.
“We are beyond grateful to have experienced his presence, his greatness and his unwavering love for the culture,” DJ Bigga Rankin’s representatives wrote. “His wisdom, encouragement and powerful words always reached the heart, and they will continue to inspire generations for years to come.”