Houston rapper BeatKing dies at 39 from pulmonary embolism

BeatKing, the famous Houston rapper and producer who was also known by the nickname Club Godzilla, has died. He was 39.

The Texas artist’s manager, Tasha Felder, confirmed his death in a statement posted to social media on Thursday. “Today, August 15, 2024, we lost BeatKing,” Felder wrote. “BeatKing has been the best member of the club for over a decade. He has produced and worked with so many artists that his sound will live on forever.”

She added: “He loved his daughters, his music and his fans. We will always love him.”

In a statement to PEOPLE, Felder confirmed that the rapper died Thursday at a Houston hospital from a pulmonary embolism, a blood clot in the lungs that causes a blockage.

“He was at an Urban One (Radio One) station doing a morning takeover when he suddenly passed out,” the statement said. “He was taken to a nearby hospital where he later passed away. His daughters were with him the entire time. It’s truly sad, we loved him so much.”

BeatKing, born Justin Riley on November 24, 1984, was a fixture in the Houston and Southern rap scene, known for his club beats that became a soundtrack for partygoers. According to his biography, the beatmaker rose to prominence in the summer of 2010 with his album Kings of the Clubone of his best-selling LPs of all time.

He released several other projects during his career, such as Club Godsequel from 2012 Club God 2plus five mixtapes that he released within 18 months. Some of his biggest hits include “Throw Dat,” “THICK” featuring DJ Chose and “Then Leave” featuring Queendome Come. He released his latest project, Never leave Houston on a Sundayon July 26th.

BeatKing’s influence extended beyond his hometown, as he collaborated with big names from the South, including 2 Chainz, Ludacris, Lil Jon, Juicy J and more. The hip-hop community mourned his death on Thursday, as tributes poured in from all over.

“It’s always the good ones. Damn this hurts,” fellow Houston rapper Bun B wrote in an Instagram post. “Just an amazing person with a great personality. We lost a talented artist and father. Prayers for @talameshia and his loved ones. RIP @clubgodzilla.”

In the comments below Felder’s Instagram post, Three 6 Mafia wrote, “RIP MANE!!! AMAZING BROTHER!!”