Erick Morillo lived a short yet successful life as a DJ and music producer until his passing at the young age of 49.

Erick Morillo is the man behind the highly acclaimed song “I Like To Move It,” who recently passed away at the age of 49.

Although the track first aired in the ‘90s, it resurfaced after being featured in the animated film franchise, “Madagascar.” Here’s more about the creator’s life.

EARLY LIFE AND CAREER

Morillo was born and raised in Cartagena, Columbia, until his pre-teenage years. At the age of 11, he moved near New York City with his family, gaining exposure to different music genres.

He was accustomed to reggae, pop, and hip-hop growing up and began his career as a DJ, for family and friends, at 11.

Soon after graduating from New York City’s Center for the Media Arts, he took his talents to the city’s night clubs, releasing his hit single, “Muevelo.”

Erick Morillo at the 2017 Los Angeles Film Festival screening of "What We Started" at the ArcLight Santa Monica on June 15, 2017 in Santa Monica, California. | Source: Getty Images

RECOGNITIONS AS A DJ

In 1994, he released the track “I Like To Move It,” which he produced and co-wrote with Mark Quashie. The song quickly made it to Billboard’s Hot 100 chart and took a spot at the US Dance Club Songs top 10.

Several personalities in the music industry paid tribute to the late DJ on social media, including DJ Joseph Capriati and DJ Yousef.

Morillo was recognized with several nominations and awards, including a Best House DJ or Best International DJ honor. He took a total of 15 nominations and six honors in total.

MORILLO’S BATTERY ALLEGATIONS

Less than a month ago, the famous DJ faced sexual battery allegations from another DJ, which he did not deny.

He turned himself in on August 6 after an incident took place last December, where a woman called 911 claiming she was taken advantage of in Morillo’s home.

Morillo initially denied the woman’s claims and said he entered his bedroom with her already there. He also came forward with his usage of ketamine and alcohol.

MORILLO’S DEMISE

On September 1, Morillo was found dead at his Miami Beach residence. The cause of death was not indicated in the reports but confirmed no signs of foul play. According to a public information officer:

“Detectives are currently on scene in the preliminary stages of the investigation.”

Several personalities in the music industry paid tribute to the late DJ on social media, including DJ Joseph Capriati and DJ Yousef.

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