On August 15, 2024, Justin “BeatKing” Riley, a central figure in the Houston, Texas rap scene, died at the age of 39.
Known by his stage name BeatKing, Riley was participating in a radio show takeover at the Urban One/Radio One station in Houston, Texas when he collapsed. He was promptly transported to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to a pulmonary embolism, a condition characterized by a blood clot obstructing a vessel in the lungs.
Riley, or BeatKing, was a significant figure in the Southern and Texas rap circles, with his influence tracing back to the early 2000s. Characterized by his humorous personality and dynamic beats, he made a substantial mark on the music industry, especially in the Southern states. His music was popular with club audiences, earning him the nickname “Club Godzilla,” which he used as his Instagram username.
His manager, Tasha Felder, announced the sad news on Instagram, sharing a post praising Riley’s contributions to the music industry and his affection for his daughters. 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.” She also emphasized Riley’s deep love for his family.
Riley’s unexpected death has deeply affected the music community, with fans and colleagues sharing tributes and condolences on social media.
Riley was not only revered for his music but also beloved for his genuine and humble personality, which endeared him to fans across the region.
BeatKing first gained prominence in the early 2010s with his hit single “Crush,” but it was his 2020 song “Then Leave” that truly launched him onto the national stage. The song went viral on TikTok during the COVID-19 pandemic, further cementing his status as a prominent figure in the Southern rap scene.
Throughout his career, Riley worked with renowned artists like 2 Chainz and Moneybagg Yo, which boosted both his and his collaborators’ profiles.
Besides his music, Riley was also recognized for his inventive and often humorous approach to parenting, which he shared with his followers through his Instagram account, “Club God Parenting.” The account provided a look into his life as a father and showcased a more personal side of the artist. His love for his daughters was clear in his posts, and it’s obvious that family held a central role in his life.
Tributes have flooded in from across the music industry following the news of Riley’s death. Fellow Houston rapper Bun B expressed his sorrow, remembering BeatKing as a “talented artist and a great-spirited person.”
The passing of Riley will leave a significant gap in the Southern rap community, where his contributions will be remembered for years to come.
BeatKing is survived by his two daughters, who were reportedly at the hospital with him at the time of his death. The family has asked for privacy as they grapple with the loss of a father, an artist, and a friend.
