MC Sparky D, one of hip-hop's first female battle rappers and a pivotal figure in the legendary Roxanne Wars, has died at the age of 61. According to a statement shared by Okayplayer and confirmed by Complex, the Brooklyn native, born Doreen C. Broadnax, passed away on July 4, 2026. No cause of death has been announced. Raised in Brownsville, Sparky D became one of rap's earliest female stars, helping shape the competitive spirit of hip-hop during its formative years.

Sparky D launched her career in 1985 with "Sparky's Turn (Roxanne You're Through)," a response to Roxanne Shanté's hit "Roxanne's Revenge," fueling the iconic Roxanne Wars that followed UTFO's "Roxanne Roxanne." The rivalry became one of hip-hop's first major lyrical feuds, with Sparky D and Shanté eventually performing together on stage, often wearing boxing gloves to dramatize their battles. She later released fan favorites including "He's My DJ" with Kool DJ Red Alert and her 1988 debut album, This Is Sparky D's World.

Tributes from across the hip-hop community poured in following news of her passing. DJ Premier remembered Sparky D as "one of the 1st Female Battle MC's" whose commanding voice made her "an instant force to be reckoned with," while MC Sha-Rock called her death "a tremendous loss" for hip-hop. Beyond music, Broadnax transformed her life after overcoming drug addiction, relocating to Atlanta in 2004 and dedicating herself to ministry. She founded Treasure Ministries and earned a Gospel Choice Award in 2007 for her inspirational song, "This Is for the Church," leaving behind a legacy that extended far beyond the microphone.