By Blessing Nweke
Grammy-nominated music producer Tay Keith, whose hard-hitting beats helped shape some of hip-hop’s biggest hits, has died at the age of 29. Authorities in Nashville, Tennessee, confirmed that the producer was found dead in his apartment following a welfare check.
Police said officers responded to the residence and discovered Keith, whose real name was Brytavious Chambers. Investigators stated that no foul play is suspected in the death. An official cause of death has not yet been released, and an autopsy is being conducted.
The Memphis-born producer rose to prominence through collaborations with some of the music industry’s biggest names, including Drake, Travis Scott, Eminem, Beyoncé, Lil Baby, J. Cole, 21 Savage and Sexyy Red. He gained widespread recognition for co-producing Travis Scott’s chart-topping hit “Sicko Mode,” earning his first Grammy nomination in 2019.
Keith received a second Grammy nomination in 2024 in the Best Rap Song category for his work on Drake and 21 Savage’s “Rich Flex.” Over the years, he contributed to several notable tracks, including Beyoncé’s “Before I Let Go,” Eminem’s “Not Alike,” Lil Nas X’s “Holiday,” and DJ Khaled’s “I Did It.”
He was also credited with helping launch Sexyy Red into mainstream success by producing her breakthrough single “Pound Town” and several follow-up hits.
Tributes poured in from across the music world following news of his death. Memphis rapper BlocBoy JB, a longtime friend, shared an emotional message on Instagram, writing: “We talked everyday yeen tell me you was leaving.”
Keith began producing music while studying at Middle Tennessee State University, where he later earned a degree in integrated studies and media management. In 2025, he was recognized on Forbes’ prestigious 30 Under 30 Music list, cementing his status as one of hip-hop’s most influential producers.