Lamar "Black Ice" Manson, a Philadelphia native and influential figure in the spoken word movement, has died at the age of 54, his family confirmed on social media. Manson was recognized as the first poet signed to Def Jam Records and was a Tony, Peabody, and Emmy Award-winning artist. He was a key member of the original cast of Def Poetry Jam on Broadway, which received the Tony Award for Best Special Theatrical Event in 2003.