Magoo, rap partner of Timbaland, has died aged 50 as tributes pour in from R&B stars

Magoo, best known for his rap collaborations with Timbaland, has died aged only 50 years old.

His death was confirmed on Monday by R&B artist Digital Black on Instagram.

“Man can’t believe this RIH Magoo damn big bro wasn’t ready for this at all #superfriends,” he told his followers.

A cause of death has not yet been confirmed.

Born Melvin Barcliff, the rapper hailing from Norfolk, Virginia is believed to have died on Sunday.

Tributes have poured in from the R&B community, including a heartbroken message from Ginuwine.

“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,” he wrote alongside a picture of Magoo.

“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 , I will see you soon bro we all have our date and I’m expecting the bro hug when I get there.” (sic)

Ginuwine added that life feels “crazy” as he processes the loss of so many friends within a short space of time.

“I hate going through this and losing people we love,” he said.

“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.”

Fellow artist ORyan Omri Browner wrote: “Damn rest in heaven Mag a nu.”

And Mr Dalvin penned: “He was such a good guy.”

Timbaland & Magoo first started collaborating in 1989 after meeting as teenagers in Norfolk.

They were later part of the group SBI (Surrounded By Idiots), which also included Larry Live and Pharrell Williams.