BeatKing, the Houston rapper celebrated for the 2010 hit “Crush” and the platinum achievement “Thick” alongside DJ Chose, has sadly passed away at the age of 39.

The rapper, also known as Club Godzilla, had his death confirmed by his manager, Tasha Felder, on her unofficial Instagram account on Thursday.

“BeatKing has been the life of the club scene for over a decade,” she shared. “His collaborations with numerous artists ensure his sound will live on forever. His love for his daughters @clubgodparenting, his music, and his fans was immense. We will cherish him always.”

In an email to YSL News on Friday, Felder clarified that BeatKing died due to a pulmonary embolism.

“He was conducting a morning segment at an Urban One (Radio One) station when he suddenly collapsed,” Felder noted. “He was rushed to a nearby hospital where he eventually passed. His daughters were by his side throughout this ordeal. It’s truly heartbreaking; we loved him dearly.”

BeatKing gained popularity with the release of “Crush” during the summer of 2010, which appeared on his 2011 album “Kings of the Club.”

In July 2020, DJ Chose released the rap track “Thick,” which later featured a remix by fellow Houston artist Megan Thee Stallion.

BeatKing was also recognized for his work on “Then Leave” with Queendom Come in 2020 and Erica Banks’ 2022 single “Toot That” alongside DreamDoll.

What is a pulmonary embolism?

A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot obstructs blood flow to the lung artery, as explained by the Mayo Clinic.

This clot typically originates in a deep vein, most commonly found in the leg, although it can occur elsewhere. There may be multiple clots involved, and a lack of blood flow can result in tissue death in parts of the lung, complicating oxygen absorption.

Factors that may contribute to a pulmonary embolism include pre-existing health conditions such as heart disease and COVID-19, prolonged periods of inactivity, smoking, and obesity.

Rapper BeatKing’s passing: Tributes from Bun B and Three 6 Mafia

In Felder’s post comments, the Memphis rap duo Three 6 Mafia expressed their condolences: “Rest in peace, GREAT BROTHER!!”

Other artists from Houston shared their sadness on social media. Slim Thug expressed his sorrow on Instagram, stating it is a “sad day in the city,” while Lil Flip contributed several “rock on” emojis in the comments of one of BeatKing’s posts.

Bun B, a Houston legend, posted a tribute on Instagram with a photo of BeatKing, offering prayers for his family. He reflected, “It’s always the good ones. A truly great person. We have lost not only a talented artist but also a wonderful father.”

Additionally, Atlanta rapper Lil Scrappy shared his grief on Instagram stories, saying: “Rest in peace to my brother  @clubgodzilla I’m heartbroken over this.”