Hip Hop Legend Hitman Howie Tee Dead at 61
Legendary hip‑hop producer Hitman Howie Tee—born Howard Thompson—has passed away at the age of 61, leaving behind a monumental legacy in the evolution of late 1980s and early 1990s rap and R&B.
Hip Hope Legend Hitman Howie Tee Dead At 61: A Pioneer from Brooklyn’s Golden Era
Born in London to Jamaican parents and raised in East Flatbush, Brooklyn, Howie Tee began his career in the early 1980s as a DJ with the electro-rap group CDIII. He released tracks like “Get Tough” and “Success”. His early collaborations with U.T.F.O.’s Kangol Kid led to the creation of the Top 20 R&B hit “(Nothing Serious) Just Buggin’” by Whistle in 1986.
By the late ’80s, he had become the in-house producer for Select Records, laying down track-defining hits like Special Ed’s “I Got It Made”, Chubb Rock’s “Treat ’Em Right”, and Special Ed’s “I’m The Magnificent”. Many topped R&B and Rap charts.
One of his most commercially impactful accomplishments came in 1991. He co-produced Color Me Badd’s “I Wanna Sex You Up” (#2 on Billboard Hot 100). Additionally, he co-produced “All 4 Love” (#1) as part of the New Jack City soundtrack era. He also remixed and produced for major acts including Madonna, Heavy D, Little Shawn, and Maxi Priest.
A Mentor & Influencer to the Next Generation
Howie Tee’s influence extends beyond his own discography. He mentored artists like Special Ed, helping craft the sound and career trajectory of the then‑teen rapper. Special Ed described him as “one of the most generous and kind people” who gave him a platform when he was too young to make it on his own.
Producer Pete Rock credited What he learned from Howie Tee as inspiration to step into production himself. DJ Wiz (Kid N’ Play’s original DJ) called him “one of the most influential DJ/producers of all time.” DJ Scratch (of EPMD) described him as Brooklyn’s first hip‑hop super-producer, a template for DJs like Clark Kent and himself to transition into production greatness.
Reflections from the Culture
Tributes are pouring in from hip‑hop icons. Questlove hailed him as an “unsung monster of a producer,” speaking to Howie’s ability to blend pop sensibilities with hard-hitting beats—combining The Beatles and classic soul samples in ways that blew minds back in the day.
DJ Premier shared a moving recollection of their friendship. He first connected with Howie over the phone at the bequest of Lil Shawn. He was struck by Howie’s ongoing passion for music even as his health declined.
Honoring the Legacy
Hitman Howie Tee’s catalog shaped the soundscape of hip‑hop and R&B during a pivotal era. From classics by Special Ed, Chubb Rock, The Real Roxanne, U.T.F.O., to mainstream hits like Color Me Badd’s crossover success. His versatility, soul, and technical skill left an indelible mark on the genre.
Though the cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, his impact is evident in every beat and bar that drew from his sound—from underground mixtapes to stadium stages and movie soundtracks.
Final Thoughts
Hitman Howie Tee was more than a producer. He was a mentor, innovator, and quiet force behind some of hip‑hop’s most enduring tracks. His work bridged eras and genres, helping lift up artists who defined the golden age and influencing those who followed. He leaves behind a legacy built on creativity, generosity, and a sonic spirit that paved the way for future generations of DJs and producers.
Rest in power, Howard “Hitman Howie Tee” Thompson. Your music lives on.
Hip Hop News Uncensored. It’s the Leader in Hip Hop content on YouTube!
