What Happened to BeatKing? The Beloved Rapper Died at Age 39
The Houston-based rapper and producer, also known as Club Godzilla, went viral on TikTok in 2020 for his song "Then Leave."
Published Aug. 16 2024, 10:05 a.m. ET
The Houston music scene gave us many artists, including Beyoncé and Megan Thee Stallion. The city was also where rapper BeatKing found success.
BeatKing, real name Justin Riley, was known for his club music as Club Godzilla.
In 2024, however, fans mourned his death at just 39. Now, people are searching for answers about his cause of death given his young age. Here’s everything we know.
What happened to BeatKing?
On Aug. 15, 2024, BeatKing's manager, Tasha Felder, announced his passing. While Felder didn't divulge details about what happened to the rapper, she released a statement highlighting BeatKing's impact during his career and sharing that he is remembered by his two daughters.
"Today, Aug.15, 2024 we have lost @Clubgodzilla," Felder wrote. "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."
Before he died, BeatKing had a celebrated career in Houston that began in 2010. Just two months before the tragedy, he opened for Nicki Minaj during her Houston stop of her Pink Friday World Tour.
What was BeatKing's cause of death?
A rep for BeatKing told TMZ that he passed away after suffering a pulmonary embolism. He was in a Houston hospital at the time of his death. The rapper had been doing a morning takeover at the Urban One/Radio One station when he fainted. After being taken to a local hospital in Houston, he later passed away with his two daughters by his side, according to TMZ.
The "Then Leave" performer was revered in his community. After the news of his death circulated, BeatKing's peers, including fellow Houston rapper Bun B posted tributes to the artist on their social media accounts. Bun B posted a photo of BeatKing and reflected on the "great-spirited person" he was.
"It’s always the good ones," the "Wipe Me Down" rapper wrote. "Damn, this s--t hurt. Just a great-spirited person. We lost a talented artist and father."
Bun B also asked his fans to pray for BeatKing's longtime partner, Houston singer Talameshia, and the rapper's other loved ones.
BeatKing is survived by his girlfriend and two daughters.
The late rapper is survived by his girlfriend, Talameshia, and two daughters, Jayla and Kayla, who appear to be from a previous relationship. Fans have expressed their love on BeatKing's Instagram posts, also extending their support to his young daughters. One person commented, "I’m praying for his daughters. This is a big loss to Houston, PV, and just music itself." Another wrote, "Rest in Paradise to a real Texas legend!!!" Another added, "The Clubs will never be the same in Texas."
Clearly, BeatKing left an indelible mark on the rap community and will be remembered by many. "RIP BEATKING, THE ONLY CLUB GOD," one fan penned on Instagram.
Our thoughts go out to his family.
