Melvin Barcliff, widely known by his stage name Magoo, a prominent figure in American hip-hop, and one-half of the renowned duo “Timbaland & Magoo,” has sadly passed away at the age of 50. While the exact cause of his untimely death remains unknown, news of his passing has reverberated across social media, sparking an outpouring of tributes from friends, collaborators, and fans alike.
Magoo’s journey began in Norfolk, Virginia, where he was born on May 25, 1973. His upbringing in the vibrant Hampton Roads region, a hip-hop and R&B hub, laid the foundation for his musical pursuits.
His partnership with childhood friend Timbaland (Timothy Mosley) took shape during their teenage years when they formed the hip-hop group “Timbaland & Magoo” in the early ’90s.
Their first album, Welcome To Our World, released in 1997 went platinum and featured the Top 20 hit ‘Up Jumps da Boogie.’
Their musical journey continued with subsequent projects like “Indecent Proposal” (2001), “Under Construction, Part II” (2003), and “Timbaland Presents Shock Value” (2007), where Magoo’s contributions remained notable even if not in a fully collaborative capacity.
While Magoo’s presence in the mainstream hip-hop scene waned in the mid-2000s, he undeniably left an indelible mark on rap enthusiasts of a certain era.
Tributes from around the world have poured in, reflecting the profound impact Magoo had on fellow musicians and fans. Ginuwine expressed his deep sorrow, remembering Magoo’s unwavering support and encouragement.
“I don’t even know how to say anything at this point, I have lost 3 friends now within a month to LIFE and it’s due date ….this dude , always pushed me …I will mis you maganooo that’s what we called him ….. totally one of the best ever in my eyes always pressing forward I know we didn’t talk alot but the love was and will be always there my brotha,” wrote the singer on Instagram.
“I will see you soon bro we all have our date and I’m expecting the bro hug when I get there 🍷I’m truly efd up right now foreal life is crazy… I hate going through this and losing people we love sometimes it makes you feel like you dont wanna feel the pain so you wanna be gone also …pain hurts ..man oh man blessings to the family all of my condolences 🙏🏽”
Playa group member, Digital Black, accompanied his message with a cover of Magoo and Timbaland’s 1997 album “Welcome To Our World.”
“Man can’t believe this RIP Magoo damn big bro wasn’t ready for this at all #superfriends.”
Timbaland pays respect to Magoo on Instagram writing, “This one hits different [crying emoji] long live Melvin aka magoo !!![broken heart emoji] Tim and Magoo forever rest easy my king.”
Missy Elliott also shared a touching tribute for the late rapper, while reflecting on their entrance into the game as teenagers.
“These are the kind of post I don’t wish on any1 at 1st I was in shock & the more I sit the reality kicks in so many emotions,” Missy Elliott wrote. “I remember when we 1st met as teenagers & you said hey my name Melvin & I laughed so hard & I said wait you really talk like that? and you said yuuuup & I kept laughing & I said what you do you said I rap & you kicked 8 bars & I said you remind me of Qtip & you said he one of my favorite emcees but your flow was VA I loved it! & from that day we became so cool you supported me from day 1 & you said I’m going to call you Misdemeanor because it’s a crime to have that many talents. So those who don’t know Magoo gave me the name Misdemeanor When we did this song Beep Me 911 & I asked Magoo to get on it & I played this verse over and over & posting this is just heartbreaking I am so lost for words.”
Fellow artists like ORyan Omri Browner and Mr. Dalvin shared heartfelt messages, attesting to Magoo’s character and contributions.
Condolences to his family and friends.
