Music Figure Linked To Beyonce And Drake Found Dead At 49

The music world has lost a major force. Sidney Brown, the Grammy-winning producer best known as Omen, who worked with megastars Beyoncé, Drake, and Lil Wayne, has been found dead at the age of 49 in his Harlem apartment. Born and raised in Harlem, Brown built his career in the late ’90s and early 2000s, working with artists like Mýa, Fabolous, Action Bronson, Memphis Bleek, and Redman. His big break came in 2006 when he produced Ludacris’ “Tell It Like It Is” for the rapper’s Grammy-winning album "Release Therapy," which scored the award for Best Rap Album. Brown’s sudden death has left both the industry and his hometown community reeling, as fans remember a man whose beats shaped an era of hip-hop and R&B.

Brown’s death was confirmed by his mother, Martha Brown, after a relative discovered his body on Saturday, September 13. Family members were called to check on him after he failed to show up for work, sparking immediate concern. His exact date of death remains unclear, and no cause has yet been released, per TMZ.

The loss has already inspired an outpouring of grief from Harlem establishments where Brown left his mark outside the studio. Barawine Harlem, where he worked for over a decade, honored him in a moving Instagram post. “It is with shock and deep sadness we have heard about the passing of our dear friend Omen Sidney Brown," they wrote. "Omen was part of Barawine’s team for over a decade bringing his unique talent to all. There are not enough words to express our feelings. Our thoughts and prayers go to his family, his friends and all who love him.”

News of Brown’s death spread quickly across social media, where fans, friends, and collaborators took to X (formerly Twitter) to share their shock and grief. Music journalist Nick Monroe simply wrote, “Rest in peace,” while another user posted, “Naahh, it can’t be real.” One fan summed it up in two words: “So sad.”

Those who knew Omen personally also poured their hearts out online. Musician Alex Gale, a longtime collaborator, shared an emotional post. “This is just unreal. My brother and musical collaborator for 30+ years," he said. "We’ll miss you, @ProducedbyOmen.”

Among the most emotional tributes came from Ethyl’s NYC, where Brown was not just a DJ, but part of the family. The venue released a moving statement on X, expressing their devastation at his sudden passing.

“All of our family at @ethylsnyc are beyond heartbroken to hear of the sudden loss of one of our own last night. We all still have no details on his passing. DJ Omen (Sidney ‘Omen’ Brown) was not only a brilliant DJ who could work a dance-floor into a frenzy in a heartbeat, he was also an award-winning producer for artists like Beyoncé, Drake, Ludacris and Lil’ Wayne. He won a Grammy for his work. But to us, he was family, and the sweetest most humble man. Everyone adored him.”

The tribute went beyond his accolades, recalling Omen’s generosity, humility, and his recent creative spark.

“Omen and I recently started working on a few tracks together, first person who has coaxed me into collaborating with writing in decades. He came to see me after his DJ shift at his residency in Harlem a week ago and we talked about the future, shared drinks and hugs. I wish I could have seen how far we could have grown together with our art. I don’t really know what else to say other than this hurts like hell. He was only 49 years old. Rest easy my friend, we’ll finish those songs on the other side one day.”

The heartfelt post was accompanied by photos and videos of Omen behind the decks at Ethyl’s, including what the poster described as their “last hug” with the Grammy-winning producer.

After working with Ludacris in 2006, his career soared. In 2010, he co-produced Drake’s “Shut It Down” on the rapper’s debut Thank Me Later. Just three years later, he teamed up with Beyoncé on her groundbreaking 2013 self-titled album, co-writing and co-producing “Mine” featuring Drake, cementing his place in music history.

As tributes pour in, friends and fans are remembering Brown not only for his Grammy-winning credits but also for his role in Harlem’s creative community. Known for his charisma as a DJ and his skill as a producer, Brown’s sudden passing is a devastating loss for both the industry and those who knew him personally.