Big Moe

Big Moe was born Kenneth Doniell Moore in 1974 in Houston, Texas. His breakout came in 1999 with the single 'Just a Dog,' which helped define a particular Houston sound of the time. He released albums like 'City of Syrup' in 2000, a title that nods to the codeine-laced cough syrup referenced in his music and in songs like 'Codine Fiend Freestyle.'

His circle included his brother E.S.G. and the rapper Fat Pat, who was killed in 1998. Big Moe worked with other Houston figures like Z-Ro and Devin the Dude. His lyrics often dealt with street life and personal struggle, delivered with a soulful, singing style over slow, heavy beats.

In 2001, he was arrested on drug charges. He died in his Texas home in October 2007 at age 33. The official cause was an accidental overdose of codeine cough syrup. His music, including tracks like 'Barre Baby' and 'City Of Syrup,' remains a specific document of Houston hip-hop in the late 1990s and early 2000s.