You may not be familiar with the name Biz Markie, but just a few notes of the rapper’s off-key singing on his 1989 hit “Just a Friend” would probably be instantly recognizable, thanks to its nearly three decades of pop-culture ubiquity. Biz came up in New York City’s underground hip-hop scene in the 1980s, but his one big hit showed his softer, more cartoonish side. In the memorable video for “Just a Friend,” Biz dons an 18th-century-style wig, mimicking Mozart and lamenting his crush’s hook-up with another man.

Biz has cropped up in guest appearances with artists including the Beastie Boys, Will Smith and Canibus. As a DJ, he’s served as Chris Rock’s opening act, and his current ’80s vs. ’90s tour features him spinning hits while tribute bands (in Vegas, it’s ’80s act 80’s Station and ’90s act Empire Records) perform between sets. Biz will be mostly behind the decks for this show, but if fans are lucky, they may get to hear some of his famous beatboxing—and even some of those memorably off-key notes.

House of Blues at Mandalay Bay, 8 p.m. March 11, $15 plus tax and fee, 18+. 800.745.3000 Ticketmaster