Tay Keith dies at 29: Nashville Music star behind Drake, Travis Scott and Beyoncé hits dies suddenly
Tay Keith, hitmaker behind Drake and Travis Scott songs, dies at 29. Image Credit: DAVID SWANSON / AFP via Getty Images
The music industry is mourning the loss of one of hip-hop’s most influential producers after Grammy-nominated hitmaker Tay Keith was found dead in his Nashville apartment. The producer, whose real name was Brytavious Chambers, was just 29 years old.
Authorities confirmed that Chambers was discovered unresponsive during a welfare check at his Martin Street residence in Nashville, Tennessee, on Thursday afternoon. Police have stated that no foul play is suspected, while the official cause of death remains under investigation pending autopsy results.
His sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the music world, where he was widely recognized for crafting chart-topping hits for some of the biggest names in entertainment.
Tay Keith Found Dead During Welfare Check in Nashville
According to the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, officers responded to a welfare check request at Chambers’ apartment on June 18, 2026. Upon arrival, they found the producer unresponsive.
Police confirmed that there were no immediate signs of criminal activity, and investigators currently do not suspect foul play. Officials are awaiting autopsy findings to determine the exact cause of death.
The news quickly spread across social media, prompting an outpouring of grief from fans, artists, and music industry figures who admired Keith’s remarkable contributions to modern hip-hop.
Who Was Tay Keith?
Born Brytavious Chambers in Memphis, Tennessee, Tay Keith emerged as one of the most successful producers of his generation.
Growing up in South Memphis before later living in East Memphis and Orange Mound, Chambers developed a passion for music production at a young age. His talent eventually propelled him onto the global stage, where he became known for creating hard-hitting beats that helped define contemporary rap music.
His signature producer tag, “Tay Keith, f*** these n****s up,” became instantly recognizable among hip-hop fans worldwide.
Career Breakthrough with Travis Scott’s “Sicko Mode”
Tay Keith’s career skyrocketed in 2018 after co-producing “Sicko Mode” by Travis Scott.
The song became a cultural phenomenon, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning Keith his first Grammy nomination. The success established him as one of the most sought-after producers in the music business.
At the time, Keith was still attending Middle Tennessee State University, where he balanced his studies with a rapidly growing music career.
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Collaborations with Music’s Biggest Stars
Over the years, Tay Keith worked with an impressive roster of artists, including:
- Drake
- Beyonce
- Eminem
- Cardi B
- 21 Savage
- Sexxy Red
- Chris Brown
His production credits included multiple Billboard Hot 100 chart-toppers, cementing his reputation as a driving force behind some of the decade’s biggest records.
Keith received another Grammy nomination in 2024 for his work on Drake and 21 Savage’s hit song “Rich Flex.”
Education and Determination Fueled His Success
Despite achieving fame while still in college, Tay Keith remained committed to completing his education.
He graduated from Middle Tennessee State University in December 2018 with degrees in Integrated Studies and Media Management.
In previous interviews, Keith spoke about balancing flights, recording sessions, and coursework while building his career. His story became an inspiration for aspiring musicians and students seeking to pursue their dreams without abandoning their education.
Forbes Recognition and Industry Impact
Keith’s influence extended beyond chart success.
In 2025, he was recognized in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 Music List alongside collaborator Cambrian Strong for their work with Drumatized Records.
The publication highlighted his rapid rise from a young Memphis producer to a Grammy-nominated industry powerhouse responsible for shaping the sound of modern hip-hop.
He also earned recognition at the BMI Awards, where he was honored as Producer of the Year, further solidifying his legacy within the music industry.
Tributes Expected as Music World Mourns
As news of his death continues to spread, tributes are expected from artists, collaborators, and fans worldwide.
Tay Keith leaves behind a remarkable musical legacy defined by innovation, chart success, and a relentless work ethic. Though his life was cut tragically short, his impact on hip-hop and popular music will continue to resonate through the countless records he helped create.
The investigation into his death remains ongoing, and authorities are expected to release additional information once the autopsy process is completed.
FAQ
Who was Tay Keith?
Tay Keith, born Brytavious Chambers, was an American record producer from Memphis, Tennessee. He became one of hip-hop’s most successful producers through collaborations with artists such as Drake, Travis Scott, Beyoncé, Eminem, and Cardi B.
How did Tay Keith die?
The exact cause of Tay Keith’s death has not been officially determined. Authorities stated that he was found unresponsive in his Nashville apartment, and an autopsy is pending.
When did Tay Keith die?
Tay Keith was found dead on June 18, 2026, according to Nashville police.
How old was Tay Keith when he died?
Tay Keith was 29 years old at the time of his death.
Where was Tay Keith found?
He was found in his apartment on Martin Street in Nashville, Tennessee, during a welfare check conducted by police.
Was foul play suspected in Tay Keith’s death?
No. Police stated that foul play is not suspected at this time.
What is Tay Keith famous for?
Tay Keith is best known for producing major hip-hop hits, including Travis Scott’s “Sicko Mode,” Drake’s “First Person Shooter,” and Drake and 21 Savage’s “Rich Flex.”
Did Tay Keith win a Grammy Award?
While Tay Keith received multiple Grammy nominations, he became widely recognized for his Grammy-nominated production work on “Sicko Mode” and later “Rich Flex.”
What artists did Tay Keith work with?
He worked with Drake, Travis Scott, Beyoncé, Eminem, Cardi B, 21 Savage, Sexyy Red, Chris Brown, and many other top artists.
Did Tay Keith attend college?
Yes. Tay Keith graduated from Middle Tennessee State University in 2018 with degrees in Integrated Studies and Media Management.
What was Tay Keith’s last public project?
One of his final public promotions was Chris Brown’s song “Call Your Name,” featuring Sexyy Red and GloRilla, which he highlighted on social media in May 2026.
What is Tay Keith’s legacy?
Tay Keith is remembered as one of the defining hip-hop producers of his generation, responsible for multiple Billboard No. 1 hits and influential productions that shaped modern rap music.