US rapper Fatman Scoop dies aged 56

He collapsed during a performance on Friday

In a post on social media, his tour manager Birch Michael - known as Pure Cold - said: "It is with the heaviest of hearts I announce the passing of Isaac Freeman III, known professionally as Fatman Scoop.

"You taught me how to be the man I am today. I love you Scoop, thank you so much for everything you gave to me."

In a post on Instagram, he wrote: "I am honestly lost for words... You took me all over the world and had me performing alongside you on some of the biggest and greatest stages on this planet, the things you taught me have truely made me the man I am today."

The Grammy-winning musician, best known for his 2003 hit Be Faithful, had been performing at a concert in Connecticut when he collapsed on stage.

He was rushed to hospital after being treated by medics at the event. In footage from the event, Freeman could be seen struggling after he disappeared behind some DJ decks on stage.

Lauren Garrett, the mayor of Hamden, wrote on Facebook on Friday: "Tonight, while performing at Hamden Town Center Park, Isaac Freeman, aka Fatman Scoop, had a medical emergency on stage.

"He is being transported by ambulance to the hospital. We will provide updates when they are available. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers."

The rapper's talent agency, MN2S labelled him a "beloved figure in the music world, whose work was loved by countless fans across the globe."

They continued: "His iconic voice, infectious energy and great personality made an indelible mark on the industry, and his legacy will live on through his timeless music."

Scoop shot to worldwide fame in 2003 with the release of his single 'Be Faithful', which went to number one in the UK and Ireland.

He also featured on Mariah Carey's Grammy-nominated song It's Like That, and had collaborated with the likes of Nick Cannon, Skrillex and Timbaland during his career.

In 2004, he starred in Channel 4 series Chancers, in which he mentored six British musicians trying to achieve success in the United States, and he was a contestant in Celebrity Big Brother 16: UK vs USA in 2015.