DALLAS — Houston rapper and producer Justin Riley, commonly known as BeatKing or Club Godzilla, has died at 39 years old.
BeatKing reportedly fainted during a recording session and later died at the hospital of a pulmonary embolism, according to the Associated Press. His manager confirmed his passing in an Instagram post.
In the post, fans and fellow artists expressed their grief. Three 6 Mafia wrote "RIP MANE!!! GREAT BROTHER!!" One fan commented "My heart just dropped. Justin you will be missed.. Love ya bro!"
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.