Sad news being reported by TMZ: Big Bank Hank, a member of legendary hip-hop group Sugarhill Gang, passed away on Tuesday morning (Nov. 11) at the age of 57 after a long bout with cancer.

The rapper was part of the Sugarhill Gang in 1979 when the hugely popular song 'Rapper's Delight' was first released. That song marked the beginning of hip-hop's emergence into the mainstream, garnering it an incredibly important song when mapping out the musical landscape of the time.

Fellow Sugarhill Gang members Master Gee and Wonder Mike released a statement about Big Bank Hank's passing via their business manager, David Mallie, saying: "So sad to hear about our brothers passing. The 3 of us created musical history together with the release of 'Rapper's Delight.' We will always remember traveling the world together and rocking the house. Rest in peace Big Bank." (Quote via CNN.)

Our thoughts go out to Big Bank Hank's family during this difficult time.

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