British rapper DIZZEE RASCAL has paid tribute to PIMP C, praising the late American hip-hop star for helping him through "hard times" when he was growing up.

The 22-year-old - real name Dylan Mills - worked with Pimp C on Where’s Da G’s, for his latest album Maths And English.

Pimp C - real name Chad Butler - who made up UGK with partner Bun B, was found dead in his sleep in a Los Angeles hotel room on 4 December (07).

He is thought to have died of natural causes, although autopsy and toxicology results won’t be available for up to eight weeks.

Mills says, "Listening to Pimp C and UGK got me through a lot of hard times growing up, it is tragic to see someone so talented who gave so much to the culture to go so suddenly.

"I was lucky enough to work with Pimp before he left us, although outspoken at times, I personally found him to be one of the humblest and most generous people I have ever come across, a true Legend, he will be sadly missed but I know his legacy will live on."