Heavy D - RIP (1967 - 2011)

Rap legend Heavy D -- one of the most influential rappers of the '90s -- died earlier today ... TMZ has learned.

Heavy D -- real name Dwight Arrington Myers -- was rushed to an L.A. hospital around noon today ... and was pronounced dead at the hospital at 1 PM. He was 44 years old.

Heavy just performed at the BET Awards in October -- and appeared to be fine.

Hookup: TMZ