Cedric The Entertainer opened the 2021 Emmys with an ode to Biz Markie. With the help of other nominees and celebrities, the legendary actor and comedian performed a rendition of the late rapper’s 1989 hit Just A Friend. Some of the stars who joined in include Lil Dicky, Anthony Anderson, and Tracee Ellis Ross.
“Some of y’all thought this celebration would be more subdued, kind of like an Emmys light, but that’s not the way this host treats his best friend.”
Cedric opened the bit with a short intro before making his way to the stage, singing alongside a dancer with a TV for a head.
“Let me tell you a story, about my situation. Couldn’t leave the crib, TV was my staycation,” rapped the actor as the crowd sang along to the chorus.
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It was a heartfelt and thoughtful performance, honoring the late “Clown Prince of HipHop” who passed away earlier this year. Although the cause still hasn’t been revealed, the late rapper struggled with Type 2 Diabetes. The late Biz Markie had been in and out of hospital from complications arising from the disease since April 2020. The rapper first made it into the limelight with his debut album, Goin Off. The project produced underground favorites like Vapors and Pickin’ Boogers.
Biz Markie’s Legacy
Biz Markie, born Marcel Theo Hall in 1964, first began performing in nightclubs within the Manhattan area. He finally got his big break after appearing in the 1986 documentary Big Fun in the Big Town. His famous hit, Just A Friend, wouldn’t be released until October 1989. The song was released as the lead single of his second studio album, The Biz Never Sleeps, and went platinum in April 1990.
This year’s Emmys were a nice change from the typical monologue opener. The entire audience was singing along by the time the tribute was over.
Written by: Sheila Maina
Twitter: @nazlin_sheila