BeatKing, Houston rapper and producer behind viral hit 'Crush,' dies at 39

The artist is known for collaborating with artists including Lil Jon, Ludacris, 2Chainz, Gangsta Boo, and more.

BeatKing, the beloved Houston rapper and producer known for hits like “Crush,” died suddenly on Thursday. He was 39.

The artist, born Justin Riley, died at a Houston hospital from a pulmonary embolism, his manager Tasha Felder confirmed in a statement to Entertainment Weekly.

“He was at an Urban One (Radio One) station doing a morning takeover when he suddenly fainted,” she wrote. “He was taken to a nearby hospital where he later passed away. His daughters were with him the entire time. It is truly sad, we loved him so much.”

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Felder also paid tribute to BeatKing’s life and storied career in an Instagram post on Thursday. "Today, August 15, 2024, we have lost @Clubgodzilla. BeatKing has been the best part of the club for over a decade,” she wrote. “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."

BeatKing, who also performed under the name Club Godzilla, rose to prominence following the release of his viral hit “Crush” in the summer of 2010. The track is featured on his celebrated 2011 album, Kings of the Club.

A prolific songwriter, BeatKing released over 15 albums throughout his career and frequently collaborated with fellow artists like Erica Banks, Lil Jon, Ying Yang Twins, Ludacris, Bun B, and Big Jade. He is featured on numerous tracks, including 2Chainz's 2022 hit "Pop Music," as well as Slim Thug's single "Get It In" from 2015.

The rapper and producer, who was known for sporting t-shirts with unique quips on them, is also known for his 2020 collaboration with Queendom Come “Then Leave,” which went viral on TikTok, and his two Underground Cassette Tape Music albums with late Three Six Mafia rapper Gangsta Boo which were released in 2014 and 2018.

BeatKing is survived by his two daughters, Jayla and Kayla.

Read the original article on Entertainment Weekly.