Following news of his death, tributes to the super producer poured in online. Pete Rock remembered his colleague in a touching post shared in the comments. “I've known you since I was 13. I took the train all the way to Brooklyn just to practice and DJ with you. From rooftop Union Square to the Latin Quarter and Madison Square Garden. DJ with you on the radio. You show me DJ routines in my basement house. I knew you were the right person if I wanted to improve my skills,” the artist wrote. “Thank you for everything you've taught me, family, and for the special memories, but I'm heartbroken, family, but you've accomplished so much and then you're one of the best producers Brooklyn has ever had.” Rest In Power” champion. You are now in a different angelic form around me.”

Franklin began his music career in the late '80s, working in New York clubs. After producing the remix for the Troop track “Spread My Wings” in 1989, he got his first big break in 1995 producing Junior MAFIA and The Notorious BIG's “Player's Anthem”, which charted at number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 and Lil' Kim featured in her first record.

The producer also later worked with Jay-Z, whom he had known since they were teenagers, producing three tracks on the rapper's massive debut album. Reasonable doubtincluding “Brooklyn’s Finest” with Biggie Smalls, “Coming of Age” and “Cashmere Thoughts.”

This is a developing story.