Pioneering Producer Hitman Howie Tee has Passed Away

Hitman Howie Tee, renowned Brooklyn-raised DJ and producer who created hits with Special Ed, Chubb Rock, The Real Roxanne, and more, has unfortunately passed away at the age of 65. Born Howard Thompson on August 1st, 1960, Howie Tee spent his early years in England, before moving to reside in Brooklyn. He is credited with significant contributions in defining the sound of Hip-Hop’s golden era.

Howie got his start in the music business in early 1980s, as a part of the electro Hip-Hop group, CDIII, with whom he released two singles on Prelude Records. Soon after, he would leave the group to pursue a solo career. His first reach into prominence occurred after joining up with U.T.F.O.’s Kangol Kid. Together, they’ve introduced the world to Whistle, whose 1985 track, “(Nothing Serious) Just Buggin’,” became a b-boy anthem.

Not too long after his work with Whistle, he became the in-house producer at Select Records, where he would create his most recognizable work. Most notably, he fully produced Special Ed’s debut album, “Youngest In Charge,” with singles such as “I Got It Made,” and “Think About It.” Equally notable are three albums he co-produced alongside his cousin Chubb Rock; “Chubb Rock Featuring Hitman Howie Tee” in 1988, “And The Winner Is…” in 1989, and “The One” in 1991, which included singles such as “Treat ‘Em Right” and “The Chubbster.”

Howie Tee achieved significant success on the Billboard charts, scoring a #1 single in 1991 with “I Wanna Sex You Up,” the debut single by R&B group Color Me Badd. He also worked on official remixes for a plethora of significant artists, including Madonna, Heavy D, and Little Shawn. Alongside his remarkable production work, Howie Tee did his part as a mentor, as well. He taught a young Spencer Bellamy, who would go on to acquire a cult following under the moniker East Flatbush Project, with songs such as “Tried by 12” and “A Madman’s Dream.”

Contributions of Hitman Howie Tee will remain etched in Hip-Hop’s history books.

May he rest in peace.