Calvin LeBrun, known professionally as Mister Cee, a seminal DJ, record producer, and radio personality renowned for his contributions to the success of Big Daddy Kane and the Notorious B.I.G., has died at 57.
His death was confirmed by former colleagues, who cited his family. Originating from Bedford-Stuyvesant in Brooklyn, Mister Cee’s influence on hip-hop began early in his career.
His high school encounter with Big Daddy Kane led to Cee joining Kane’s tour as a DJ in the late ’80s, even featuring on Kane’s 1988 album “Long Live the Kane” in the track “Mister Cee’s Master Plan.”
Cee also played a pivotal role in the career of the Notorious B.I.G., recording Biggie’s demo tape that led to a deal with Bad Boy Records. As an associate executive producer, he contributed to the production of Biggie’s landmark album “Ready to Die” in 1994, alongside Sean “Diddy” Combs.
Cee was a fixture at Hot 97 and a significant figure in mixtape culture, creating mixes that extended well beyond the traditional lengths. His career faced public scrutiny in 2013 following an arrest, which he addressed by advocating for inclusivity and acceptance.
Up until recently, he continued to DJ, notably on 94.7 The Block in NYC, and had performances planned. Tributes from those who knew him, like Hot 97’s Peter Rosenberg, highlight Mister Cee’s deep impact and cherished relationships within the music community.
Rosenberg praised him as an iconic figure and a personal friend, emphasizing his shock and love for Cee. Mister Cee’s tenure at Hot 97 lasted 21 years, where his “Throwback at Noon” segment left a lasting impression on colleagues and the station’s culture.
