Icon: DJ Mister Cee “The Finisher”

DJ Mister Cee is synonymous with helping to shape the sound of East Coast hip-hop during one of its most pivotal periods. In the 1990s, before music streaming services and social media, radio was king as far as how listeners consumed music, and Mister Cee was one of the premier DJs on the airwaves. Nicknamed “The Finisher,” Mister Cee built up his reputation and his following by being a force on the turntables and fondness for introducing his audience to new music. Throughout his career, he is credited for being influential in the careers of many of the big names in hip-hop, including 50 Cent, Fetty Wap, Alicia Keys, and Jay Z.

DJ Mister Cee was born Calvin Lebrun on August 17, 1966, in Brooklyn, New York, a place with deep roots in the fabric of hip-hop culture. Growing up in the infamous Bed-Stuy neighborhood of the borough, a young Calvin soaked up the cultural influences of his surroundings, including those of his uncle, who was part of a D.J. troupe. Throughout his career, Mister Cee often credits his uncle for fostering his love for music and showing him the ropes of the D.J. craft.

DJ Mister Cee started gaining traction in his career in the 1980s when he linked up with friend and fellow Brooklyn artist Big Daddy Kane. As Big Daddy Kane's D.J. and producer, Mister Cee appeared on Kane's debut album "Long Live the Kan" (1988). Mister Cee was featured heavily on the classic album on one of the standout tracks, “Mister Cee’s Master Plan.” The track showcased his exceptional skills on the turntables and beat-making abilities, all while Kane shouted out his name many times during the track’s duration.

Mister Cee's most significant contribution to the hip-hop world was discovering The Notorious B.I.G., aka Biggie. After being introduced to Biggie by a friend and fellow D.J. named 50 Grand, Cee soon became an early advocate and producer for the upcoming rhyme slinger. Mister Cee helped Biggie produce his first demo tape, which ultimately led to his signing with Bad Boy Records. Cee became the associate executive producer for Biggie’s debut album “Ready to Die” in 1994. The classic album was a turning point in hip-hop, and Mister Cee’s influence is embedded in its creation.

DJ Mister Cee’s influence also extends into the airwaves, where he has had a decorated career as a radio D.J. for decades. In the 1990s, he joined Hot 97, one of the most influential hip-hop stations in the country, where he hosted his revered shows “Throwback at Noon” and “Friday Night Live.” Mister Cee worked with Hot 97 for over 20 years before resigning from the station. He eventually joined WXBK 94.7 The Block, where he worked until his death.

The world lost Calvin LeBrun on April 10, 2024. Upon his passing, many prominent voices in the hip-hop community took to social media to express their gratitude and respect for Mister Cee's life, exemplifying his profound impact on the culture. His work as a D.J. and producer is linked with some of the biggest names the genre has produced. As a personality and DJ, Mister Cee has helped shape the musical tastes of multiple generations of fans.