It has been reported that Erick Morillo died today (September 1). According to initial reports and law enforcement services, the famed DJ and music producer’s body was found earlier this morning in Miami Beach, however, at this time the circumstances surrounding his death are unclear.
The star DJ was 49 years old, he was best known for his work in international house music, while he’s still been frequently touring the globe, Morillo’s biggest claim to fame was his ’90s track “I Like to Move It” which was released under the alias Reel 2 Real. It regained astronomical popularity when it was featured as a key song in the 2005 DreamWorks animated film Madagascar.
Erick Morillo grew up in Cartagena, Colombia as well as New York, and New Jersey. He first began making music in the early ’90s under the alias Reel 2 Real. He’s was a highly acclaimed performer, and 3-time winner of the DJ Awards’ Best House DJ and a 3-time winner of Best International DJ, his most recent win was in 2009.
Morillo’s death arrives only a few weeks after the star DJ was arrested in Miami on sexual battery charges. The alleged victim claims she and Morillo had gone to his place after they were both DJing and resisted his sexual advances, then went to sleep at his place, but woke up nude … with Morillo standing next to her, also nude. Following the accusations, he turned himself in on August 6 but denied all charges. He was reportedly scheduled for a court hearing this Friday, September 4.
Morillo was 49 years old.
