BeatKing's manager confirms that the artist, also known as Club Godzilla, passed away on Thursday, August 15 without giving the cause of death, leaving fans in shock.
- August 16, 2024
AceShowbiz - Southern hip-hop community is mourning now. Justin "BeatKing" Riley, a legendary Houston rapper and producer, has passed away. His manager and Houston's radio station 97.9 The Box confirmed the sad news on Thursday, August 15.
His manager Tasha Felder released a heartfelt statement via social media. "Today, August 15, 2024, we have lost @clubgodzilla," she wrote along with pictures of the late artist. "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."
Houston's 97.9 The Box, where BeatKing was considered family, also expressed their grief, stating, "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. 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."
The cause of his death has not been disclosed yet, but sources close to him say that it may have been due to health-related issues. Fans and friends quickly took to the comments section of BeatKing's recent Instagram posts to express their grief.
A shocked user wrote, "Man can't believe this you a Texas legend fasho R.I.P." Another penned, "Homie tell me it ain't true. Rest easy my boy." A third fan said, "Rest In Paradise To A Real Texas Legend!!!"
A fourth person wrote in disbelief, "I PRAY THAT SAYCHEESE POST ISN'T REAL WTF." Another also refused to believe it as saying, "like imma need u to get on here and tell us this ain't nothing but a joke that went to far..." Someone else simply commented, "RIP MANE."
BeatKing, also known as Club Godzilla, was a trendsetter who redefined Southern club music. He burst onto the scene in 2010 with the release of "Kings of the Club", which featured hit singles like "Crush", "Hammer" and "Lil Tjones". His third solo album "Club God", released in 2011, cemented his place in the industry with the Billboard-charting single "You Ain't Bout That Life".
