Beloved son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend to so many, Donnell Robinson passed away too soon on September 12th.
Donnell was born August 5, 1969 in St. Louis, Missouri and graduated from Ladue High School in 1987. He moved to Austin, Texas after graduation and discovered a new force in music that he identified with — hip-hop. With his booming voice and street-smart verses, Don adopted the moniker MC Overlord and performed with a live band when most hip-hop artists used recorded tracks or a DJ. Don embarked on a 30+ year career winning Austin Hip-Hop Artist of the year a record ten times, becoming a member of the Austin Music Hall of Fame.
He challenged himself later in his career to become a voice and mentor for youth, creating four record albums as the bright and fun hero Big Don. Using positive lyrics and a hip-hop beat that kids could connect with, Big Don performed at countless school and youth events across Texas.
Don was devoted to his mother Mercedes who passed away this summer. He was a beloved brother to four sisters: Debbie, Vickey, Kim and Tracy; and a brother Rickey. He was the beloved uncle to six nephews: LaMarr, TaMarr, Rickey Jr., Miguel, Nico and Jacob; and a niece Lauren. Don leaves 15 first cousins and many second and third cousins.
A foundation is being created in Don’s memory to serve Austin city youth and young artists.
A memorial service was held Saturday, November 3, 2018.
