Grammy-nominated producer Tay Keith, born Brytavious Lakeith Chambers, has died at 29 in his Nashville apartment after police carried out a welfare check, authorities said. Metro Nashville Police said no foul play is suspected and that the cause of death is pending an autopsy. ALSO READ: Is Rwandan hip-hop dead or has it evolved? What industry players say Keith, a Memphis native, built his reputation on hard-hitting production that powered some of hip-hop’s biggest records, including Travis Scott’s “Sicko Mode,” Drake’s “Nonstop” and BlocBoy JB’s “Look Alive.” He was nominated for a Grammy for “Sicko Mode” in 2019 and later for Drake and 21 Savage’s “Rich Flex,” a run of credits that cemented his place among the most influential producers of his generation. His beats found a wide audience across Africa, where American hip-hop has long had a strong following leaving a mark on many African producers working in hip-hop, drill and Afrobeats. Named to Forbes’ 30 Under 30 Music list last year, Keith was widely seen as a young producer with uncommon reach. In the wake of his death, friends and fellow musicians have posted tributes online, remembering him as a talent who helped define a generation of modern hip-hop.
