Rapper Magoo dead at 50 - Timbaland's ex partner Melvin Barcliff dies as pals lead tributes to Up Ju

TIMBALAND's former rap partner Magoo has died at the age of 50.

Pals in the music industry have paid tribute to the Up Jumps da Boogie star, who is understood to have passed away on Sunday.

Magoo, real name Melvin Barcliff, was best known as one half of Timbaland & Magoo.

R&B artist Digital Black, real name Benjamin Bush, wrote: "Man can’t believe this RIP Magoo damn big bro wasn't ready for this at all #superfriends."

American singer-songwriter Ginuwine also appeared to honour the star on social media.

He said: "Times get rough but we keep on pushing just heard some news I hope it ain’t true.

"I just want everyone to know that time is short love who you love and make sure they know it."

Magoo was part of hip-hop duo Timbaland & Magoo with Timothy Mosley.

The pair, from Virginia, started collaborating in 1989 when they crossed paths as teenagers.

They released their debut album Welcome to Our World in 1997 - featuring their hit single Up Jumps da Boogie.

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Two of the songs - Up Jumps da Boogie and Cop That S*** - featured renowned singer Missy Elliott.

The rappers also appeared on Missy Elliott's Beep Me 911 in 1997 and Warped in 2013.

Magoo and Timbaland's third and final album Under Construction, Part II in 2003 was meant as a sequel to Missy Elliott's Under Construction.

It's understood Magoo died on Sunday, but a cause of death has not been confirmed.

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