TEXAN rap star and music producer BeatKing has died aged 39.
His death was announced by his manager via Instagram in a heartfelt message. Here’s what we know about his passing.
Who was BeatKing?
Rapper and producer BeatKing was born on November 24, 1984, as Justin Riley.
He had a passion for singing from a young age.
After playing instruments with his mother at church, he turned his passion into a profession, venturing into the music industry in 2010.
His fame reached new heights with the release of Kings Of The Club.
The album included the hit singles Crush, Hammer, and Lil T-Jones.
He went on to release numerous albums, including the Club God series.
In 2024 he released what would be his final album, Never Leave Houston On A Sunday.
He has worked with Bun B, Paul Wall, Chamillionaire, Lil Keke, DJ Chose, Dorrough Music, 2 Chainz, Juicy J, and Daz Dillinger.
The producer’s top five tracks included Outside, Keep It Poppin, Freaky Deaky and BDA.
He also had his own merchandise range.
His shirts cost around $30 each and have statements written across them including, “all hustle no luck”, and “gum is not toothpaste”.
What have BeatKing’s representatives said about the music producer’s passing?
The rapper – who had two daughters, Kayla and Jayla – passed away on August 15, 2024..
The star’s death was confirmed by his manager, Tasha Felder who posted a statement on Instagram.
Paying tribute to the star, she wrote: “Today, August 15, 2024, we have lost @Clubgodzilla.
“BeatKing has been the best part of the club for over a decade.
“He has produced and worked with so many artists, that his sound will forever live.
“He loved his daughters, @clubgodparenting, his music, and his fans. We will love him forever.”
Fellow rapper, Bun B, reacted to the news saying: “It’s always the good ones.
“Damn this sh*** hurt. Just a great spirited person. We lost a talented artist and father.
“Prayer for @talameshia and his loved ones. RIP @clubgodzilla.”