Rapper Marley Marl, who produced LL Cool J's classic album "Mama Said Knock You Out", has died suddenly aged 44.

Mr Marl died on Friday morning in Bronx, New York, following a heart attack, said his creative director Marleny Dominguez.

"He was a gifted poet; a one-off talent who managed to combine rage and humanity in the songs which enthralled generations of listeners. We'll miss him enormously."