HOUSTON — Houston rapper BeatKing has died, his manager confirmed on social media Thursday night.
BeatKing, whose real name is Justin Riley, was 39.
It's unclear how he died.
His manager's post on Instagram said this:
"Today, August 15, 2024 we have lost @Clubgodzilla. 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."
BeatKing was best known for his song “Then Leave,” which went viral in 2020 on TikTok, catapulting him to an international audience. However, the rapper was particularly famous in Texas, where his music filled college parties and club scenes through the 2010s.
Other hits include "SDAB," which featured 2Chainz and Juicy J, "Outside," and "Keep It Poppin feat. Ludacris and Queendom Come."
BeatKing was a transformative figure in Southern rap. He was prolific throughout his career, amassing millions of views on often viral songs.
BeatKing is survived by his two daughters.
Ben Sawyers with our sister station WFAA contributed to this story. Read his reporting here.