Southern hip-hop mourns the loss of Beat King, a trailblazing producer and rapper whose influence shaped the genre.
The music world is grieving the loss of Justin “Beat King” Riley, a revered rapper and producer who passed away on August 15, 2024. Beat King, also known as “Club Godzilla,” was a monumental figure in the Southern hip-hop community, particularly in Houston, Texas. His manager, along with Houston’s 97.9 The Box radio station, confirmed the tragic news, leaving fans and fellow artists in shock.
Beat King’s passing has left a significant void in the music industry, particularly in the Southern club scene, where his beats and unique style were the life of the party. The cause of his death has not yet been disclosed, but the impact of his loss is already being felt across the community.
“Beat King 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,” his manager said.
His manager, Tasha Felder, shared a heartfelt message on social media, saying, “Today, August 15, 2024, we have lost @clubgodzilla. Beat King 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, his music, and his fans. We will love him forever.”
Born on November 24, 1984, Beat King’s love for music started early. He played drums as a child alongside his mother, who was a pianist in their church. This early exposure to music laid the foundation for what would become a groundbreaking career in the hip-hop industry.
Beat King burst onto the scene in 2010 with his debut release, Kings of the Club, which featured hits like “Crush,” “Hammer,” and “Lil TJones.” His third solo album, Club God, released in 2011, solidified his place in the industry, thanks in part to the Billboard-charting single “You Ain’t Bout That Life.” His signature sound, blending infectious beats with witty lyrics, quickly made him a fan favorite.
Over the years, Beat King became known for his prolific work ethic, releasing a steady stream of mixtapes and albums, including Club God 2, Gangsta Stripper Music, and Astroworld. His ability to create viral sensations through quick, humorous songs based on trending videos further endeared him to fans, earning millions of views across platforms.
Houston’s 97.9 The Box, where Beat King was considered part of the family, also expressed their sorrow: “Our hearts are heavy with the news that Beat King, 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, Beat King.”
Beat King’s influence on Southern music, particularly in Houston, is immeasurable. His innovative approach to music and marketing set him apart in the industry, and his sound will continue to resonate in clubs, car stereos, and among fans for years to come.
As the music world waits for more details surrounding his passing, it is clear that Beat King’s legacy will live on. He is survived by his daughters and leaves behind a rich legacy of music that will continue to inspire and move audiences globally.
Beat King’s untimely death is a reminder of the fleeting nature of life but also of the enduring power of music to create connections and memories that last a lifetime.
