The funeral service Friday for rap pioneer Heavy D had a lot great highlights, led by Rev. Al Sharpton and featuring lots of famous attendees including Usher, Queen Latifah, Don King, Q-Tip, John Legend and Rosie Perez. Also there – maybe not in the flesh, but in spirit — was President Obama, who sent a note that Sharpton quoted during the service: “We extend our heartfelt condolences at this difficult time. He will be remembered for his infectious optimism and many contributions to American music. Please know that you and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers,” it said. Heavy D — whose real name was Dwight Myers — reigned as a great influence in world of hip-hop the 1980s and 1990s, releasing popular singles like “Now That We’ve Found Love” and “Nuttin’ But Love” as part of the popular “New Jack Swing” era of the genre. He died last week at the age of 44 after being rushed to the hospital for shortness of breath. His official cause of death has been deferred for further investigation, but reports indicate that he may have suffered a heart attack or complications from pneumonia.
