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Writer's pictureChinyere Ibeh

Houston Rapper and Producer BeatKing Passes Away from Pulmonary Embolism

Updated: 3 days ago

The "U Ain't Bout That Life" artist dies, leaving fans and social media users to look back on his career.

BeatKing also known as Club Godzilla, real name Justin Riley
BeatKing had hits, such as "Throw Dat Ahh" and "Hammer," that made its rounds in the clubs during the early 2010s (Photo Courtesy: BeatKing @clubgodzilla on Instagram)

BeatKing, also known as ClubGodzilla by fans, has passed away.


Real name Justin Riley, the Houston-based rapper and producer was only 39 years old at the time of his passing. The rapper's manager, Tasha Felder, confirmed the news on Instagram, which included a slideshow of the rapper.


“Today, August 15, 2024, we have lost [BeatKing]. 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,” the post read.


Felder would later confirm the cause of death to PEOPLE Magazine.


In a statement to the publication, Felder said the rapper died of pulmonary embolism — a blood clot in your lung that causes a blockage. He was at a Houston hospital when he suffered from the condition.


"He was at an Urban One (Radio One) station doing a morning takeover when he suddenly fainted," the statement read. "He was taken to a nearby hospital where he later passed away. His daughters were with him the entire time."


BeatKing served as a club staple throughout the 2010s, gaining notoriety with his 2010 album Kings of the Club. His lengthy career included more recent hits like DJ Chose’s “Thick” and “Toot That” with DreamDoll and Erica Banks.


Many celebrities and fans alike took to social media to voice their grief over the rapper's passing.


"It's always the good ones. Damn, this s--t hurt," fellow Houston rapper Bun B wrote in an Instagram post. "Just a spirited person. We lost a talented artist and father."


In the comment section of Felder's Instagram post, Three 6 Mafia wrote: "RIP MANE!!!! GREAT BROTHER!!"

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