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{{Short description|American record executive (1966–2024)}}
{{Distinguish|text=[[RBL Posse|Mr. Cee]]}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=April 2024}}
{{Infobox musical artist <!-- See Wikipedia:WikiProject Musicians -->
{{Infobox musical artist <!-- See Wikipedia:WikiProject Musicians -->
| name = Mister Cee
| name = Mister Cee
| image =
| image = Mister Cee.jpg
| caption =
| caption = Mister Cee in 1997
| image_size = <!-- Only for images narrower than 220 pixels -->
| image_size = <!-- Only for images narrower than 220 pixels -->
| background = non_performing_personnel
| background = non_performing_personnel
| birth_name = Calvin LeBrun
| birth_name = Calvin LeBrun
| alias = The Finisher
| alias = {{hlist|The Finisher|The Wallop King|DJ Mister Cee}}
| birth_date = {{birth date|1966|08|17}}
| birth_place =[[Brooklyn, New York|Brooklyn]], [[New York City]], [[United States]]
| birth_date =
| birth_place = New York City, U.S.
| death_date =
| death_date = {{death date and age|2024|04|10|1966|08|17}}
| origin = [[New York City]]
| death_place = New York City, U.S.
⚫
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]]
| instrument = [[Keyboard instrument|Keyboards]], [[Percussion]], [[Sampler (musical instrument)|Sampler]], [[Turntablism|Turntable]]
| occupations = {{hlist|Disc jockey|record executive|radio personality|broadcaster}}
⚫
| genre = [[Hip hop]]
| years_active = 1987–2024
| occupation = [[DJ]]<br>[[Record producer]]<br>[[Radio personality]]<br>[[Singing|Singer]]
| years_active = 1988 - present
| label =
| past_member_of = {{hlist|[[The Flip Squad]]|[[Juice Crew]]}}
| label =
| website =
| associated_acts = [[Big Daddy Kane]], [[Notorious B.I.G.]]
| notable_instruments =
| website =
}}
}}
'''Calvin LeBrun''' better known as '''Mister Cee''' or '''DJ Mister Cee''', is an [[United States|American]] [[hip hop]] [[DJ]], [[radio personality]] on New York's [[WQHT|Hot 97]] FM, and a respected [[record producer]]. LeBrun is best known as the DJ for hip hop artist [[Big Daddy Kane]] during the late 1980s and early 1990s. He also served as an associate executive producer for [[the Notorious B.I.G.]]'s debut album, ''[[Ready to Die]]'' (1994).<ref>[http://www.hot97.com/airstaff/mistercee.aspx http://www.hot97.com/airstaff/mistercee.aspx].</ref> He has also developed and endorsed a variant of the [[Tropical Fantasy]] soft drink, which he named "Island Punch Finisher".<ref>http://www.hot97.com/mistercee/</ref>


'''Calvin LeBrun''' (August 17, 1966 – April 10, 2024), known professionally as '''Mister Cee''' or '''DJ Mister Cee''', was an American [[DJ]], [[Radio broadcasting|broadcaster]], [[record executive]], and radio personality. Credited with the discovery of both rappers, he guest featured on [[Big Daddy Kane]]'s 1988 debut album ''[[Long Live the Kane]]'', and served as associate executive producer for [[the Notorious B.I.G.]]'s 1994 debut album, ''[[Ready to Die]]''.<ref>[http://www.hot97.com/airstaff/mistercee.aspx Mister Cee], [[WQHT|Hot 97]], {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061026003031/http://www.hot97.com/airstaff/mistercee.aspx |archive-date=October 26, 2006 }}.</ref><ref name=bigandkane>{{cite news|url=https://variety.com/2024/music/news/mister-cee-dead-the-notorious-big-big-daddy-kane-1235966818/|title=Mister Cee, Big Daddy Kane's DJ and Notorious B.I.G.'s Producer, Dies at 57|first=Steven|last=Horowitz|publisher=Variety|date=April 10, 2024|accessdate=April 10, 2024|archive-date=April 10, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240410221937/https://variety.com/2024/music/news/mister-cee-dead-the-notorious-big-big-daddy-kane-1235966818/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=hot97remembrance>{{cite news|url=https://www.hot97.com/news/legendary-dj-mister-cee-has-passed-away/|title=Legendary DJ Mister Cee Has Passed Away|first=Tai|last=Perkins|publisher=Hot 97|date=April 10, 2024|accessdate=April 10, 2024|archive-date=April 10, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240410220341/https://www.hot97.com/news/legendary-dj-mister-cee-has-passed-away/|url-status=live}}</ref> Mister Cee is widely considered to be a pioneering figure in [[East Coast hip hop]].<ref name="nyt-obit" />
==Biography==
LeBrun was born in the [[Bedford-Stuyvesant]] section of [[Brooklyn]], [[New York]]. He started working summer jobs at age 14, and graduated from high school at 18, where he met [[Big Daddy Kane]]. After graduation he worked for several messenger companies. He worked for [[Airborne Express]] up until he and Big Daddy Kane released the album ''[[Long Live the Kane]]'' (1988).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hiphopmusic.com/interviews/magic.html|title=Mr. Magic and Mister Cee - 1995|year=1995}}</ref> In 2008, Mister Cee was featured as himself on the hip-hop radio station "102.7 The Beat" in [[Rockstar Games]]' ''[[Grand Theft Auto IV]]''.


== Life and career ==
On April 3, 2011, [[Jacky Jasper]] revealed that Mister Cee was involved in gay sex after being arrested for public lewdness. Police revealed that in March 2011, Cee was receiving oral sex from a 20 year old man in west Manhattan, an area known for gay activities.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://diaryofahollywoodstreetking.com/busted-hot-97-dj-mister-cee-caught-gay-sex-act/|title=Hot 97 DJ Mister Cee Arrested For Public Lewdness}}</ref>
LeBrun was born on August 17, 1966,<ref name="source-obit">{{cite web |last1=Grant |first1=Shawn |title=DJ Mister Cee Reportedly Dead at 57, Messages of Love Pour in Across Social Media |website=[[The Source]] |url=https://thesource.com/2024/04/10/dj-mister-cee-reportedly-dead-at-57-messages-of-love-pour-in-across-social-media/ |access-date=April 14, 2024 |publisher=The NorthStar Group |date=April 10, 2024 |archive-date=April 11, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240411091507/https://thesource.com/2024/04/10/dj-mister-cee-reportedly-dead-at-57-messages-of-love-pour-in-across-social-media/ |url-status=live }}</ref> in [[Bedford–Stuyvesant, Brooklyn]], New York City. At a young age, he learned how to DJ from a crew called DJ Knight and the Knights of Hollywood.<ref name=bigandkane /> In high school, he met rapper [[Big Daddy Kane]]. After graduation, he worked for several messenger companies, including [[Airborne Express]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hiphopmusic.com/interviews/magic.html|title=Mr. Magic and Mister Cee – 1995|year=1995|access-date=November 5, 2006|archive-date=January 26, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210126121512/http://www.hiphopmusic.com/interviews/magic.html|url-status=live}}</ref> until he began deejaying for Kane in the late 1980s. He appeared on the track "Mister Cee's Master Plan" from Kane's 1988 debut album, ''[[Long Live the Kane]]'',<ref name=bigandkane /> and was a member of the [[Juice Crew]], alongside rapper [[Roxanne Shante]].<ref name="vibe-death">{{cite news |last1=Brown |first1=Preezy |title=Mister Cee, Legendary Hip-Hop DJ, Dead At 57 |url=https://www.vibe.com/news/national/dj-mister-cee-dead-1234869187/ |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=VIBE.com |publisher=Vibe Media |date=April 10, 2024 |archive-date=April 11, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240411023806/https://www.vibe.com/news/national/dj-mister-cee-dead-1234869187/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="forbes-shante-jc">{{cite news |last1=Alm |first1=David |title='Roxanne Roxanne' Tells An Often-Ignored Piece Of Hip Hop History |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidalm/2018/03/23/roxanne-roxanne-tells-an-often-ignored-piece-of-hip-hop-history/?sh=6867bcbf175c |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=Forbes |publisher=Advantage Media |date=April 11, 2024 |language=en |archive-date=April 12, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240412083216/https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidalm/2018/03/23/roxanne-roxanne-tells-an-often-ignored-piece-of-hip-hop-history/?sh=6867bcbf175c |url-status=live }}</ref>


In the early 1990s, he gained popularity as a radio DJ, showcasing the music of rising artists. His radio shows ''Throwback at Noon'' and ''Friday Night Live'' would air respectively on New York radio stations [[WQHT|Hot97]] and [[WBLS]].<ref name=hot97remembrance /> During this time, Mister Cee discovered the [[The Notorious B.I.G.|Notorious B.I.G]]., otherwise known as Biggie Smalls,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.billboard.com/music/rb-hip-hop/mister-cee-dead-obituary-1235653440/|title=Mister Cee, Legendary New York DJ, Dies at 57|first=Angel|last=Diaz|publisher=Billboard|date=April 10, 2024|accessdate=April 10, 2024|archive-date=April 11, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240411022311/https://www.billboard.com/music/rb-hip-hop/mister-cee-dead-obituary-1235653440/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=confirmed>{{cite news|url=https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/mister-cee-death-calvin-lebrun/|title=New York City DJ Mister Cee dies at age 57, Hot97 confirms|publisher=CBS News New York|date=April 10, 2024|accessdate=April 10, 2024|archive-date=April 11, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240411013553/https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/mister-cee-death-calvin-lebrun/|url-status=live}}</ref> after meeting the rapper through his DJ 50 Grand.<ref name=bigandkane /> He would serve as B.I.G.’s mentor,<ref>{{Cite web|url= https://www.instagram.com/p/C5mNSyCPzEg/?igsh=MXNodHZ5dHl4ajZudw== |title=thenotoriousbig on Instagram: "The family of The Notorious B.I.G extend our deepest condolences and prayers to the family of our beloved brotha Calvin "DJ Mister Cee" Lebrun on his transition. He was a dear friend and mentor of B.I.G and an unwavering committed supporter of the family over the years of B.I.G's transition. We Love and Salute you King.. RIP- One of the BEST to touch the turntables"|website=Instagram}}</ref> help record B.I.G.'s demo and facilitate the deal that got Notorious B.I.G. signed by [[Sean "Diddy" Combs]] to [[Bad Boy Records]].<ref name=bigandkane />
==Loitering violation==
In May 2011 Celebrity gossip Columnist Jacky Jasper of diaryofahollywoodstreetking.com outted DJ Mister Cee with article on site featuring transgender author Toni Newman admitting she had relations with LL Cool J, DJ Mister Cee and Eddie Murphy. Jacky Jasper wrote an article June 2011 in Hip Hop Weekly with Cover LL Cool Gay? interviewing Transgender Author Toni Newman about her book I Rise-The Transformation of Toni Newman and her celebrity hookups. On June 1, 2011, LeBrun pleaded guilty to a New York penal code loitering violation; at the time of his arrest, he was caught receiving oral sex from another man in a parked car.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://articles.nydailynews.com/2011-06-01/news/29631785_1_guilty-plea-bust-loitering|title=DJ Mister Cee pleads guilty to loitering..|publisher=The New York Daily news|date=June 1, 2011|accessdate=July 20, 2011}}</ref> The court ordered him to complete 12 sessions of counseling with a doctor.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1393321/Rap-producer-Mister-Cee-admits-loitering-charge-caught-having-oral-sex-man-car.html|title=Rap producer Mister Cee admits loitering charge..|publisher=The Daily Mail|date=June 1, 2011|accessdate=July 20, 2011}}</ref> Although the news came as a surprise to members of the hip hop community, rapper [[50 Cent]] came to Mister Cee's defense, saying that he would "make him my DJ any day."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.billboard.com/column/the-juice/50-cent-defends-dj-mister-cee-after-controversial-1005114452.story#/column/the-juice/50-cent-defends-dj-mister-cee-after-controversial-1005114452.story|title=50 Cent Defends DJ Mister Cee After Controversial Arrest|date=April 6, 2011}}</ref>


In 1998, Mister Cee became a member of [[The Flip Squad]], which included [[Mark Ronson]].<ref name="nme-bigkap-death">{{cite news |last1=Gamp |first1=Joe |title=Mark Ronson and Biggie Smalls collaborator DJ Big Kap passes away, aged 45 |url=https://www.nme.com/news/music/various-artists-457-1205946 |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=NME |publisher=NME Networks |date=February 3, 2016 |archive-date=October 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231003081737/https://www.nme.com/news/music/various-artists-457-1205946 |url-status=live }}</ref> He influenced many popular artists, including [[Alicia Keys]],<ref name="ebony-keys">{{cite news |last1=Gonzales |first1=Michael A. |title=[VINTAGE VISION] Alicia Keys Dips Her 'Diary' in Hip-Hop |url=https://www.ebony.com/alicia-keys-dips-her-diary-in-hip-hop-333/ |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=EBONY |date=December 20, 2013 |archive-date=December 8, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221208132117/https://www.ebony.com/alicia-keys-dips-her-diary-in-hip-hop-333/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and was referenced in [[Jay-Z]]'s [[Death of Autotune]].<ref name="billboard-death">{{cite magazine |last1=Saponara |first1=Michael |title=50 Cent, DJ Premier, Chuck D & More React to DJ Mister Cee's Death |url=https://www.billboard.com/music/rb-hip-hop/50-cent-dj-premier-reactions-dj-mister-cee-death-1235653500/ |access-date=April 11, 2024 |magazine=Billboard |publisher=Penske Media |date=April 10, 2024 |archive-date=April 11, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240411025359/https://www.billboard.com/music/rb-hip-hop/50-cent-dj-premier-reactions-dj-mister-cee-death-1235653500/ |url-status=live }}</ref> He was one of the first DJs to play [[Fetty Wap]]'s "[[Trap Queen]]" in 2014, helping launch the rapper's career.<ref name="billboard-death" /> Aside from his contributions in music, Mister Cee also helped develop a new flavor called "Island Punch Finisher" for [[Tropical Fantasy]] soft drinks.<ref>{{cite web |first1=Chris |last1=Deville |title=Mister Cee, Legendary Hip-Hop DJ, Dead At 57|url=https://www.stereogum.com/2258937/mister-cee-legendary-hip-hop-dj-dead-at-57/news/|work=[[Stereogum]]|date=April 10, 2024 |access-date=April 11, 2024|archive-date=April 10, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240410222421/https://www.stereogum.com/2258937/mister-cee-legendary-hip-hop-dj-dead-at-57/news/|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2008, the video game ''[[Grand Theft Auto IV]]'' featured a realistic Mister Cee character on a rap radio station titled "102.7, the Beat".<ref>{{cite web |first1=Rashad |last1=Grove |title=Report: Legendary New York DJ Mister Cee Dies at 57|url=https://www.bet.com/article/t08vg8/legendary-new-york-dj-mister-cee-dies-at-57|work=BET|access-date=April 11, 2024|archive-date=April 10, 2024|date=April 10, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240410213726/https://www.bet.com/article/t08vg8/legendary-new-york-dj-mister-cee-dies-at-57|url-status=live}}</ref>
⚫
==Discography==
===Selected production credits===
⚫
*[[Notorious B.I.G.]] - ''[[Ready to Die]]'' (1994), associate producer
*[[Notorious B.I.G.]] - "[[Best of Biggie Smalls]]" (1995), producer ([[Mixtape]])


In 2013, his sexuality entered the public debate after his repeated arrests for soliciting prostitution from trans women.<ref>{{cite web|first1=Brandon |last1=Soderberg |date=May 6, 2013 |title=Mister Cee, Arrested Again for Soliciting a Prostitute, Tries to Defend Himself|url=https://www.spin.com/2013/05/mister-cee-dj-arrested-soliciting-prostitute-defense-hot-97/|work=Spin|access-date=April 10, 2024|archive-date=December 2, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231202130727/https://www.spin.com/2013/05/mister-cee-dj-arrested-soliciting-prostitute-defense-hot-97/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":0">Zach Baron (January 21, 2014). [https://www.gq.com/story/mister-cee-calvin-lebrun-hot-97-dj "The secret double life of Mister Cee, hip hop's most beloved DJ"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211002223652/https://www.gq.com/story/mister-cee-calvin-lebrun-hot-97-dj |date=October 2, 2021 }}. ''[[GQ]]''. [[Condé Nast]]. Retrieved June 21, 2014.</ref><ref name="mtv.com">{{cite web|first1=Rob |last1=Markman |date= May 6, 2013 |title=Hot 97 DJ Mister Cee takes to airwaves after arrest: 'I am not gay'|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1706828/hot-97-mister-cee-arrest-male-prostitute-not-gay/|work=MTV News|access-date=January 15, 2015|archive-date=August 16, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190816035945/http://www.mtv.com/news/1706828/hot-97-mister-cee-arrest-male-prostitute-not-gay/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Challenged by his radio cohost [[Ebro Darden]], he was partly secretive, but denied being gay.<ref name=":0" /><ref name="mtv.com" /> The controversy persisted until he publicly acknowledged that, while not seeking sex with trans women, he had sought activities such as oral sex,<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{cite web|first1=Nancy |last1=Dillon |date=January 22, 2014 |title=Hot 97 DJ Mister Cee opens up about transgender prostitution scandal, says he's 'absolutely not' gay in GQ interview |url=http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/gossip/hot-97-dj-mister-cee-absolutely-not-gay-article-1.1587347|work=NY Daily News|access-date=January 15, 2015|archive-date=April 14, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150414030210/http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/gossip/hot-97-dj-mister-cee-absolutely-not-gay-article-1.1587347|url-status=live}}</ref> and questioned his sexuality.<ref name="nyt-sexuality">{{cite news |last1=Caramanica |first1=Jon |title=Hip-Hop, Tolerance and a D.J.'s Bared Soul: He's Tired of Denial |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/14/arts/music/homophobia-and-hip-hop-a-confession-breaks-a-barrier.html?_r=0 |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=The New York Times |date=September 13, 2013 |archive-date=December 7, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221207074859/https://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/14/arts/music/homophobia-and-hip-hop-a-confession-breaks-a-barrier.html?_r=0 |url-status=live }}</ref> As a result of the controversy and the station's new plans for music, he resigned from Hot97 temporarily in 2013 and permanently in 2014, moving to his show on [[WXBK]].<ref name="nyt-obit">{{cite news |last1=Mayorquín |first1=Orlando |title=Mister Cee, Pioneering Brooklyn D.J., Dies at 57 |quote="Before he died, he had his own show playing throwbacks on 94.7 The Block NYC." |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2024/04/10/arts/music/mister-cee-dj-dead.html |access-date=April 12, 2024 |work=The New York Times |date=April 10, 2024 |archive-date=April 11, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240411164853/https://www.nytimes.com/2024/04/10/arts/music/mister-cee-dj-dead.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Despite the prevalence of [[LGBT representations in hip hop music|homophobia in the hip hop community]] at the time, he received support from many notable hip hop figures, including [[Questlove]].<ref name="st-death">{{cite news |last1=Landrum, Jr. |first1=Jonathan |title=Mister Cee, a famed hip-hop DJ and key figure behind Notorious B.I.G.'s debut album, dies at 57 |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/entertainment/mister-cee-a-famed-hip-hop-dj-and-key-figure-behind-notorious-b-i-g-s-debut-album-dies-at-57/ |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=The Seattle Times |date=April 10, 2024 |archive-date=April 12, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240412083333/https://www.seattletimes.com/entertainment/mister-cee-a-famed-hip-hop-dj-and-key-figure-behind-notorious-b-i-g-s-debut-album-dies-at-57/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
⚫
==References==

In 2020, Mister Cee became the host of
[[Sirius XM]]'s “The Set It Off Show” on [[LL Cool J]]'s Rock the Bells Radio, a position he held until his death.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.siriusxm.com/blog/dj-mister-cee|title=SiriusXM Remembers DJ Mister Cee with a Special Tribute Show|website=siriusxm.com|date=April 10, 2024| access-date=April 24, 2024}}</ref>

== Death ==
LeBrun died in [[New York City]] on April 10, 2024, at the age of 57 due to "diabetes-related coronary artery/kidney disease." LeBrun's cause of death was confirmed in an official statement from the family.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.hot97.com/news/legendary-dj-mister-cee-has-passed-away/|title=Legendary DJ Mister Cee Has Passed Away|first=Tai|last=Perkins|publisher=Hot 97|date=April 10, 2024|accessdate=April 10, 2024|archive-date=April 10, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240410220341/https://www.hot97.com/news/legendary-dj-mister-cee-has-passed-away/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=confirmed /><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bet.com/article/4qcwkc/dj-mister-cees-cause-of-death-revealed|title=DJ Mister Cee's Cause of Death Revealed|website=BET|date=April 17, 2024| access-date=April 24, 2024}}</ref> Numerous recording artists and broadcasters expressed their condolences on social media, including [[50 Cent]], [[Faith Evans]], [[Queen Latifah]], [[Fat Joe]], [[DJ Premier]], [[Pete Rock]], [[Chuck D]], [[Busta Rhymes]], [[Raekwon]], [[Ed Lover]], [[Memphis Bleek]], and Hot 97 DJ [[Peter Rosenberg]].<ref name="ht-death">{{cite news |last1=Grover |first1=Ashima |title=Iconic DJ Mister Cee passes away at 57: Report |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/music/iconic-dj-mister-cee-passes-away-at-57-report-101712782607517.html |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=Hindustan Times |date=April 11, 2024 |language=en |archive-date=April 11, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240411181959/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/music/iconic-dj-mister-cee-passes-away-at-57-report-101712782607517.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="abc7-death">{{cite news |title=Mister Cee, pioneering New York City DJ, dies at 57 |url=https://abc7ny.com/calvin-lebrun-also-known-as-dj-mister-cee-dies-at-57/14644154/ |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=ABC7 New York |agency=The Associated Press |date=April 11, 2024 |language=en |archive-date=April 11, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240411015136/https://abc7ny.com/calvin-lebrun-also-known-as-dj-mister-cee-dies-at-57/14644154/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="today-death">{{cite news |last1=Stump |first1=Scott |title=Mister Cee, legendary hip-hop DJ, dies at 57. Why the hip-hop community is in deep mourning |url=https://www.today.com/popculture/music/mister-cee-death-rcna147355 |access-date=April 12, 2024 |work=TODAY.com |date=April 11, 2024 |language=en |archive-date=April 11, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240411181805/https://www.today.com/popculture/music/mister-cee-death-rcna147355 |url-status=live }}</ref>

== Legacy ==

Mister Cee is considered a legendary figure in hip-hop and one of the greatest DJs of all time.<ref name="nyt-obit" /> [[DJ Premier]] called Mister Cee an "icon", [[50 Cent]] called Mister Cee a "legend",<ref name="billboard-death" /> and [[Peter Rosenberg]] called Mister Cee "one of the most important and impactful DJs of all time".<ref name="ht-death" /> [[Common (rapper)|Common]] called Mister Cee "one of the most important people ever in hip-hop" and said "thank you for what you’ve done for the Culture, the Music and for Us."<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.instagram.com/reel/C5pgZQtM7F-/|title=Common on Instagram: "GOD Bless The Soul of Mister Cee."|website=Instagram}}</ref> [[Wyclef Jean]] added that Mister Cee was “one of the greatest pillars of hip-hop music”.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.instagram.com/reel/C5mdiZNLhBa/?igsh=MXBqenhqb24xd2ZkMw%3D%3D|title=Wyclef Jean on Instagram: "R.I.P to one of the greatest pillars of HIp Hop Music we all loved you rest with the Angels"|website=Instagram}}</ref> [[Busta Rhymes]] stated, "I just want people to understand how much Mister Cee really meant. I hope everybody can understand how significant of a blow this is to our culture as a whole...we’re not letting Mister Cee’s legacy die. We’re going to make sure your legend lives for infinity."<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.instagram.com/reel/C6HBN9rL8Xl/?igsh=MWVwNXZ5dmt5Z2d5ag/|title=947theblock on Instagram: "On April 30th, family and friends will be sending our dear friend THE FINISHER DJ MISTER CEE off in grand fashion."|website=Instagram}}</ref>

⚫
== Discography ==
{{incomplete list|date=April 2024}}
*[[Masta Ace]] – [[Take a Look Around (album)|''Take a Look Around'']] (1990), producer
*[[Big Daddy Kane]] – ''[[Taste of Chocolate]]'' (1990), producer
*[[Big Daddy Kane]] – [[Prince of Darkness (Big Daddy Kane album)|''Prince of Darkness'']] (1991), producer
*[[Roxanne Shante]] – [[The Bitch Is Back (Roxanne Shanté album)|''The Bitch Is Back'']] (1992), producer
*[[Big Daddy Kane]] – ''[[Looks Like a Job For...]]'' (1993), producer
⚫
*[[The Notorious B.I.G.]] – ''[[Ready to Die]]'' (1994), associate executive producer<ref name="bigandkane" />
*The Notorious B.I.G. – ''Best of Biggie Smalls'' (1995), producer ([[mixtape]])<ref name="hnhh-obit">{{cite news |last1=Nevares |first1=Gabriel Bras |title=Rest In Peace Mister Cee: Remembering The DJ's Indelible Hip-Hop Legacy |url=https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/786856-mister-cee-dead-dj-career-history-hip-hop-news |access-date=April 14, 2024 |work=HotNewHipHop |date=April 11, 2024 |language=en}}</ref>

⚫
== References ==
{{Reflist}}
{{Reflist}}


==External links==
== External links ==
*[http://www.discogs.com/artist/Mister+Cee Mister Cee] at [[Discogs]]
*[http://www.discogs.com/artist/Mister+Cee Mister Cee] at [[Discogs]]
*[http://cdn.mediatakeout.com/47718/mto_super-exclusive_legendary_ny_dj_mister_cee_arrested____for_doing_a_lewd_act_with_a_tranney_exclusive_evidence_inside.html] at [[Mediatakeout]]


{{Authority control}}
{{Persondata <!-- Metadata: see [[Wikipedia:Persondata]]. -->
| NAME =Cee, Mister
| ALTERNATIVE NAMES =
| SHORT DESCRIPTION =
| DATE OF BIRTH =
| PLACE OF BIRTH =
| DATE OF DEATH =
| PLACE OF DEATH =
}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Cee, Mister}}
[[Category:Year of birth missing (living people)]]
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[[Category:Living people]]
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[[Category:American record producers]]
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[[Category:American radio personalities]]
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[[Category:People from Brooklyn]]
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[[Category:Hip hop DJs]]
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[[Category:Hip hop record producers]]


[[it:Mister Cee]]
[[Category:1966 births]]
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[[Category:2024 deaths]]
[[Category:Record producers from New York (state)]]
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[[Category:American radio personalities]]
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[[Category:People from Bedford–Stuyvesant, Brooklyn]]
[[Category:American people of Trinidad and Tobago descent]]
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[[Category:Hip-hop record producers]]
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[[Category:The Flip Squad members]]
[[Category:LGBTQ hip-hop musicians]]
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[[Category:LGBTQ DJs]]
[[Category:American LGBTQ musicians]]
[[Category:LGBTQ people from New York (state)]]
[[Category:20th-century American LGBTQ people]]
[[Category:21st-century American LGBTQ people]]
[[Category:Juice Crew members]]

Latest revision as of 18:52, 13 December 2024

Not to be confused with Mr. Cee.

Mister Cee
Mister Cee in 1997
Mister Cee in 1997
Background information
Birth nameCalvin LeBrun
Also known as
  • The Finisher
  • The Wallop King
  • DJ Mister Cee
Born(1966-08-17)August 17, 1966
New York City, U.S.
DiedApril 10, 2024(2024-04-10) (aged 57)
New York City, U.S.
GenresHip hop
Occupations
  • Disc jockey
  • record executive
  • radio personality
  • broadcaster
Years active1987–2024
Formerly of

Calvin LeBrun (August 17, 1966 – April 10, 2024), known professionally as Mister Cee or DJ Mister Cee, was an American DJ, broadcaster, record executive, and radio personality. Credited with the discovery of both rappers, he guest featured on Big Daddy Kane's 1988 debut album Long Live the Kane, and served as associate executive producer for the Notorious B.I.G.'s 1994 debut album, Ready to Die.[1][2][3] Mister Cee is widely considered to be a pioneering figure in East Coast hip hop.[4]

Life and career

[edit]

LeBrun was born on August 17, 1966,[5] in Bedford–Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, New York City. At a young age, he learned how to DJ from a crew called DJ Knight and the Knights of Hollywood.[2] In high school, he met rapper Big Daddy Kane. After graduation, he worked for several messenger companies, including Airborne Express,[6] until he began deejaying for Kane in the late 1980s. He appeared on the track "Mister Cee's Master Plan" from Kane's 1988 debut album, Long Live the Kane,[2] and was a member of the Juice Crew, alongside rapper Roxanne Shante.[7][8]

In the early 1990s, he gained popularity as a radio DJ, showcasing the music of rising artists. His radio shows Throwback at Noon and Friday Night Live would air respectively on New York radio stations Hot97 and WBLS.[3] During this time, Mister Cee discovered the Notorious B.I.G., otherwise known as Biggie Smalls,[9][10] after meeting the rapper through his DJ 50 Grand.[2] He would serve as B.I.G.’s mentor,[11] help record B.I.G.'s demo and facilitate the deal that got Notorious B.I.G. signed by Sean "Diddy" Combs to Bad Boy Records.[2]

In 1998, Mister Cee became a member of The Flip Squad, which included Mark Ronson.[12] He influenced many popular artists, including Alicia Keys,[13] and was referenced in Jay-Z's Death of Autotune.[14] He was one of the first DJs to play Fetty Wap's "Trap Queen" in 2014, helping launch the rapper's career.[14] Aside from his contributions in music, Mister Cee also helped develop a new flavor called "Island Punch Finisher" for Tropical Fantasy soft drinks.[15] In 2008, the video game Grand Theft Auto IV featured a realistic Mister Cee character on a rap radio station titled "102.7, the Beat".[16]

In 2013, his sexuality entered the public debate after his repeated arrests for soliciting prostitution from trans women.[17][18][19] Challenged by his radio cohost Ebro Darden, he was partly secretive, but denied being gay.[18][19] The controversy persisted until he publicly acknowledged that, while not seeking sex with trans women, he had sought activities such as oral sex,[18][20] and questioned his sexuality.[21] As a result of the controversy and the station's new plans for music, he resigned from Hot97 temporarily in 2013 and permanently in 2014, moving to his show on WXBK.[4] Despite the prevalence of homophobia in the hip hop community at the time, he received support from many notable hip hop figures, including Questlove.[22]

In 2020, Mister Cee became the host of Sirius XM's “The Set It Off Show” on LL Cool J's Rock the Bells Radio, a position he held until his death.[23]

Death

[edit]

LeBrun died in New York City on April 10, 2024, at the age of 57 due to "diabetes-related coronary artery/kidney disease." LeBrun's cause of death was confirmed in an official statement from the family.[24][10][25] Numerous recording artists and broadcasters expressed their condolences on social media, including 50 Cent, Faith Evans, Queen Latifah, Fat Joe, DJ Premier, Pete Rock, Chuck D, Busta Rhymes, Raekwon, Ed Lover, Memphis Bleek, and Hot 97 DJ Peter Rosenberg.[26][27][28]

Legacy

[edit]

Mister Cee is considered a legendary figure in hip-hop and one of the greatest DJs of all time.[4] DJ Premier called Mister Cee an "icon", 50 Cent called Mister Cee a "legend",[14] and Peter Rosenberg called Mister Cee "one of the most important and impactful DJs of all time".[26] Common called Mister Cee "one of the most important people ever in hip-hop" and said "thank you for what you’ve done for the Culture, the Music and for Us."[29] Wyclef Jean added that Mister Cee was “one of the greatest pillars of hip-hop music”.[30] Busta Rhymes stated, "I just want people to understand how much Mister Cee really meant. I hope everybody can understand how significant of a blow this is to our culture as a whole...we’re not letting Mister Cee’s legacy die. We’re going to make sure your legend lives for infinity."[31]

Discography

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Mister Cee, Hot 97, Archived 2006-10-26 at the Wayback Machine.
  2. ^ a b c d e f Horowitz, Steven (April 10, 2024). "Mister Cee, Big Daddy Kane's DJ and Notorious B.I.G.'s Producer, Dies at 57". Variety. Archived from the original on April 10, 2024. Retrieved April 10, 2024.
  3. ^ a b Perkins, Tai (April 10, 2024). "Legendary DJ Mister Cee Has Passed Away". Hot 97. Archived from the original on April 10, 2024. Retrieved April 10, 2024.
  4. ^ a b c Mayorquín, Orlando (April 10, 2024). "Mister Cee, Pioneering Brooklyn D.J., Dies at 57". The New York Times. Archived from the original on April 11, 2024. Retrieved April 12, 2024. Before he died, he had his own show playing throwbacks on 94.7 The Block NYC.
  5. ^ Grant, Shawn (April 10, 2024). "DJ Mister Cee Reportedly Dead at 57, Messages of Love Pour in Across Social Media". The Source. The NorthStar Group. Archived from the original on April 11, 2024. Retrieved April 14, 2024.
  6. ^ "Mr. Magic and Mister Cee – 1995". 1995. Archived from the original on January 26, 2021. Retrieved November 5, 2006.
  7. ^ Brown, Preezy (April 10, 2024). "Mister Cee, Legendary Hip-Hop DJ, Dead At 57". VIBE.com. Vibe Media. Archived from the original on April 11, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024.
  8. ^ Alm, David (April 11, 2024). "'Roxanne Roxanne' Tells An Often-Ignored Piece Of Hip Hop History". Forbes. Advantage Media. Archived from the original on April 12, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024.
  9. ^ Diaz, Angel (April 10, 2024). "Mister Cee, Legendary New York DJ, Dies at 57". Billboard. Archived from the original on April 11, 2024. Retrieved April 10, 2024.
  10. ^ a b "New York City DJ Mister Cee dies at age 57, Hot97 confirms". CBS News New York. April 10, 2024. Archived from the original on April 11, 2024. Retrieved April 10, 2024.
  11. ^ "thenotoriousbig on Instagram: "The family of The Notorious B.I.G extend our deepest condolences and prayers to the family of our beloved brotha Calvin "DJ Mister Cee" Lebrun on his transition. He was a dear friend and mentor of B.I.G and an unwavering committed supporter of the family over the years of B.I.G's transition. We Love and Salute you King.. RIP- One of the BEST to touch the turntables"". Instagram.
  12. ^ Gamp, Joe (February 3, 2016). "Mark Ronson and Biggie Smalls collaborator DJ Big Kap passes away, aged 45". NME. NME Networks. Archived from the original on October 3, 2023. Retrieved April 11, 2024.
  13. ^ Gonzales, Michael A. (December 20, 2013). "[VINTAGE VISION] Alicia Keys Dips Her 'Diary' in Hip-Hop". EBONY. Archived from the original on December 8, 2022. Retrieved April 11, 2024.
  14. ^ a b c Saponara, Michael (April 10, 2024). "50 Cent, DJ Premier, Chuck D & More React to DJ Mister Cee's Death". Billboard. Penske Media. Archived from the original on April 11, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024.
  15. ^ Deville, Chris (April 10, 2024). "Mister Cee, Legendary Hip-Hop DJ, Dead At 57". Stereogum. Archived from the original on April 10, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024.
  16. ^ Grove, Rashad (April 10, 2024). "Report: Legendary New York DJ Mister Cee Dies at 57". BET. Archived from the original on April 10, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024.
  17. ^ Soderberg, Brandon (May 6, 2013). "Mister Cee, Arrested Again for Soliciting a Prostitute, Tries to Defend Himself". Spin. Archived from the original on December 2, 2023. Retrieved April 10, 2024.
  18. ^ a b c Zach Baron (January 21, 2014). "The secret double life of Mister Cee, hip hop's most beloved DJ" Archived October 2, 2021, at the Wayback Machine. GQ. Condé Nast. Retrieved June 21, 2014.
  19. ^ a b Markman, Rob (May 6, 2013). "Hot 97 DJ Mister Cee takes to airwaves after arrest: 'I am not gay'". MTV News. Archived from the original on August 16, 2019. Retrieved January 15, 2015.
  20. ^ Dillon, Nancy (January 22, 2014). "Hot 97 DJ Mister Cee opens up about transgender prostitution scandal, says he's 'absolutely not' gay in GQ interview". NY Daily News. Archived from the original on April 14, 2015. Retrieved January 15, 2015.
  21. ^ Caramanica, Jon (September 13, 2013). "Hip-Hop, Tolerance and a D.J.'s Bared Soul: He's Tired of Denial". The New York Times. Archived from the original on December 7, 2022. Retrieved April 11, 2024.
  22. ^ Landrum, Jr., Jonathan (April 10, 2024). "Mister Cee, a famed hip-hop DJ and key figure behind Notorious B.I.G.'s debut album, dies at 57". The Seattle Times. Archived from the original on April 12, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024.
  23. ^ "SiriusXM Remembers DJ Mister Cee with a Special Tribute Show". siriusxm.com. April 10, 2024. Retrieved April 24, 2024.
  24. ^ Perkins, Tai (April 10, 2024). "Legendary DJ Mister Cee Has Passed Away". Hot 97. Archived from the original on April 10, 2024. Retrieved April 10, 2024.
  25. ^ "DJ Mister Cee's Cause of Death Revealed". BET. April 17, 2024. Retrieved April 24, 2024.
  26. ^ a b Grover, Ashima (April 11, 2024). "Iconic DJ Mister Cee passes away at 57: Report". Hindustan Times. Archived from the original on April 11, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024.
  27. ^ "Mister Cee, pioneering New York City DJ, dies at 57". ABC7 New York. The Associated Press. April 11, 2024. Archived from the original on April 11, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024.
  28. ^ Stump, Scott (April 11, 2024). "Mister Cee, legendary hip-hop DJ, dies at 57. Why the hip-hop community is in deep mourning". TODAY.com. Archived from the original on April 11, 2024. Retrieved April 12, 2024.
  29. ^ "Common on Instagram: "GOD Bless The Soul of Mister Cee."". Instagram.
  30. ^ "Wyclef Jean on Instagram: "R.I.P to one of the greatest pillars of HIp Hop Music we all loved you rest with the Angels"". Instagram.
  31. ^ "947theblock on Instagram: "On April 30th, family and friends will be sending our dear friend THE FINISHER DJ MISTER CEE off in grand fashion."". Instagram.
  32. ^ Nevares, Gabriel Bras (April 11, 2024). "Rest In Peace Mister Cee: Remembering The DJ's Indelible Hip-Hop Legacy". HotNewHipHop. Retrieved April 14, 2024.
[edit]
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