With a heavy heart, we offer condolences to the family of John Beamon Fletcher, aka Ecstasy from the rap group Whodini. The 56 year-old artists who made history with Jalil Hutchins and Grandmaster D, Drew Carter, as the sex symbols of rap, passed away on December 23, 2020.
WATCH 1986 “FUNKY BEAT” VIDEO HERE:
A staple in Right On!, Whodini initially performed on the groundbreaking 80’s Fresh Fest concert tour, which showcased the hottest artists at the time, and gave exposure to pre-teen hip hop dancers Jermaine Dupri and his partner Chad Elliott.
Whodini at a Funk Fest performance courtesy 95.7.
Whodini, once signed to Jive/Arista Records, recorded numerous successful singles, including “The Freaks Come Out At Night,” “One Love” and “Funky Beat.” The latter song, “Funky Beat” featured an all-star cast of celebrities, including Run-DMC, Full Force, Right On! Editor Cynthia Horner and Gregory Williams of the music group Switch.
Although Whodini’s life remained relatively private, Ex became known as the “handsome guy with the wide-brimmed, Zorro styled hat,” a signature look that became his trademark. He often wore shorts and had an amazing build and winning smile.
According to sources, Mr. Fletcher leaves behind daughter his Jonnelle, his partner, Deltonia Cannon; five other children, Johnmon, Monet, Bianca, Sahara and Tiana; three brothers, Joseph, David and Douglas; a sister, Harriet Fletcher and five grandchildren.
Although we mourn his death, we are comforted in the knowledge that Whodini received the Hip Hop Icon Award from Black Music Honors in 2019. ONE LOVE!
We styled this photo session and made them stars. Credit: Right On!
Whodini receives 2019 Hip Hop Icon Award at Black Music Honors. Credit: Earl Gibson III
WATCH WHODINI’S SPEECH AT BLACK MUSIC HONORS 2019:
