BeatKing was a groundbreaking rapper, producer, and songwriter who was born Justin Riley in Houston, Texas. He was well known for his raw, vivacious style and his unabashedly provocative lyrics, he was often compared to the modern-day Uncle Luke. BeatKing, was also known as the ClubGod, while being well-known figure in Southern Hip-Hop, having produced hits that have taken over the dance floor and social media. There is no denying BeatKing’s impact on the Hip-Hop scene. You will understand the significance of BeatKing’s comical shirts if you listen to the song “2009” off his album “Never Leave Houston on a Sunday.” BeatKing would wear the shirts to the clubs and change up the phrases because they made him stand out. His ability to continually create club tunes that appeal to audiences nationwide while staying true to his Houston roots has earned him respect both nationally and internationally.
His 2010 breakout mixtape, “Gangsta Stripper Music”, laid the groundwork for his unique style, which blends infectious sounds with unfiltered, brutal comedy. Songs such as “Throw Dat Ahh” and “Hammer” dominated the club scene and became cultural icons, embodying the raw and adventurous character of Southern nightlife. From his well-known song “Then Leave” that took over social media and the radio to his viral moments that showcase his theatrical approach to life, BeatKing had a significant influence on the culture. His distinctive niche in hip-hop, where he continued to push boundaries and reinvent what it means to be a successful artist today, was a result of his ability to combine humor, social commentary, and irresistible beats.
As BeatKing persisted to evolve and drop hits that kept the streets and clubs jumping, one thing is certain: his reputation as a Texas Hip-Hop icon was unshakeable. He was a representation of what it means to hustle, grind, and shine on your own terms, he is more than just the ClubGod. Over the years, BeatKing has collaborated with a variety of artists and DJ’s such as: Paul Wall, Megan Thee Stallion, 2Chainz, DJ Papa Ron, Slim Thug, Moneybagg Yo, DJ Chose, Erica Banks, Lil Keke, and many more. Beyond just his music, he had a significant impact on the Texas rap scene.
Q&A w/ DJ Papa Ron
Q: What was BeatKing’s creative process when producing music?
A: When it came to producing music, it usually stemmed from something he may have saw or heard in the club. Then he would hit the home studio & activate “The Sassy Beat Making Hand” He used his left wrist coming up with different sounds. I thought that was so funny, but that is how he made music. He actually talked about it in a few of his videos and people would always think he was playing, but that was really his thing when it came down to making music.
Q: Who was BeatKing beyond the spotlight?
A: He did not live the life of the music that he rapped about, he was not wild at all. BeatKing was into Yoyo’s and candy like Skittles, Nerds, and Jolly Ranchers. My bro was real chill and laidback. 
Q: How do you think that BeatKing would want his fans to remember him?
A: He changed the game and the way people listened to music. People went from listening to Chopped N Screwed music back to dancing. “I am so thankful to have been able to be a part of something so amazing with my brother.” We was both just doing what we love in this music game. – DJ Papa Ron
Q: What was BeatKing’s inspiration for his music?
To see how people reacted in the club. BeatKing wanted to give the people an experience and have a good time.
Papa Ron’s Top 5 BeatKing songs:
- Throw Dat Ahh
- Crush
- Lil T. Jones (Gave a Dallas sound)
- Never Leave Houston On A Sunday
- Smile (He was with him when he got the beat from Mr. Lee)
DJ Michael Watts 
“BeatKing was so talented that he was on the level of Dr. Dre and Timbaland when it came to production.” He was more than just Twerk music. He just knew a lane that he could monetize and strategize from.
DJ Michael Watts recalled that the song “Independent” by Candi Redd was the one on which he first heard of BeatKing from producing, and it went on to become a tremendous hit in the South. The atmosphere of music shifted for him when he heard Crush. After the Chopped N Screwed era, everyone wanted to start dancing again. His sound alone created music that encouraged clubbing, which propelled him to enormous success. “BeatKing was a creative and innovative man who will always be remembered, especially in our Texas club scene.”
Beatking’s legacy is defined by his innovative approach to music and his contribution to the evolution of Southern rap. Despite his untimely passing on August 15, 2024, his work continues to resonate, ensuring that his influence will endure in the hearts of fans of hip-hop history. BeatKing leaves behind his two loving daughters, and host of family, friends, and devoted fans. Long live the Club God aka BeatKing, the pride of Houston and the embodiment of Southern rap’s enduring power.
Justin “Beat King aka Club God” Riley’s Homegoing Services will be held on Thursday August 29, 2024 from 11-2PM with a Balloon release afterwards. BeatKing’s funeral will be streamed on Instagram for those who are not able to attend: @CLUBGODZILLA
