Rapper Fatman Scoop's cause of death confirmed after stage collapse

US rapper Fatman Scoop died of heart disease after he collapsed on stage, US authorities have confirmed.

The hip hop star died aged 56 in hospital after collapsing on stage at a gig in Connecticut on August 30.

The music star, real name Isaac Freeman III, suffered hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and his death was ruled "natural", a spokesperson for the office of the chief medical examiner in Connecticut told the PA news agency.

READ MORE: The historic Town Hall raising a glass with its own gin

Fatman Scoop had a UK number one hit with Be Faithful in 2003 and appeared on the UK version of Celebrity Big Brother in 2015. During his career, he featured on tracks by Timbaland, Missy Elliott, David Guetta, The Situation and Skrillex.

His family remembered the star as "the undisputed voice of the club" following his unexpected death last month. "Fatman Scoop was not just a world class performer, he was a father, brother, uncle and a friend," a statement issued at the time said.

"He was the laughter in our lives, a constant source of support, unwavering strength, and courage. His joy was infectious and the generosity he extended to all will be deeply missed but never forgotten."