Fatman Scoop’s Legacy To Be Honored With Street Co-Naming Ceremony In Harlem

Fatman Scoop‘s irreplaceable legacy will be commemorated this month with a street co-naming in his beloved stomping grounds, Harlem, New York City. The initiative is headed by the Freeman Family, in partnership with NYC Council Member Dr. Yusef Salaam and the Forever Fatman Scoop Foundation and aims to memorialize the impact he has made in NYC, the entertainment industry, and beyond.

The event is slated for Aug 9, 2025, at 2:00 P.M. at the intersection of 109th Street and 5th Avenue, where the street will be officially co-named “Isaac ‘Fatman Scoop’ Freeman III Place.” In attendance will be the Grammy Award winner’s friends and family alongside local leaders, community members, and fans.

In September 2024, a celebration of his life was held at the legendary Apollo Theater in Harlem.

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“Scoop has always represented Harlem with pride,” said his brother Kendell “Sav” Freeman via press release. “This co-naming is a tribute not just to his artistry, but to his ongoing commitment to uplifting the community that raised him.”

The influential DJ passed away on Aug. 31, 2025, due to “hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease,” according to the Los Angeles Times. He was playing a show at the Hamden Town Center Park when he suddenly collapsed on stage in the middle of his set.

Fatman Scoop was born as Isaac Freeman III on Aug. 6 , 1968, and adopted his iconic stage name from the nickname given to him by his Uncle Jack as a child because he loved ice cream. He first rose to fame with the release of his 1999 single “Be Faithful” featuring the Crooklyn Clan, which has since aged as one of the most popular party anthems of all time.

He was loved for his signature booming voice, high-energy performances, and cultural relevance, as he delivered quality hits that have proven to withstand the test of time. Scoop’s presence took over tracks like “Drop” by Timbaland and Magoo, “U Sexy Girl” with Elephant Man, “Lose Control” with Missy Elliott and Ciara, and many more.

See the street naming ceremony details above and revisit his hits below.