Source: Paras Griffin / Getty
On Thursday (Aug. 15) during the evening hours, the Hip-Hop community was shocked and saddened to learn that legendary Texas artist BeatKing had suddenly passed away at the too young age of 39.
According to KHOU, BeatKing’s manager, Tasha Felder, took to Instagram to announce the sudden passing of the man born Justin Riley. Having been a part of the Texas music scene—he recently performed at Birthday Bash in Atlanta—for more than a decade, BeatKing carved a niche out for himself on the rap scene by producing some big club hits over the years before going viral with his breakout smash “Then Leave” in 2020.
UPDATE: TMZ reports that BeatKing suffered a pulmonary embolism, and he passed away later that day at a Houston hospital. His two daughters were reportedly by his side.
“Our hearts are heavy with the news that Beatking, family to us here at 97.9 The Box and Radio ONE Houston, has passed away,” said The Box in a statement. “This is a developing story but we are sending our love to his loved ones, friends, peers and the whole city of Houston. We love you Beatking.”
His manager took the time to give the man his flowers in the Instagram post that broke hearts all across the Hip-Hop board.
“BeatKing has been the best part of the club for over a decade,” read Felder’s caption. “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.”
RIP, Clubgodzilla.
What was your favorite BeatKing cut? Let us know in the comments section below.
This story is developing.