Rap’s Elite Turn Out for Music Producer Tay Keith’s Funeral in Memphis—Gunna, Sexyy Red, Murda Beatz, Turbo, Plus Label and Political Bigwigs

Photo Credit: Tay Keith by Richard Echols

On June 30, family, friends, collaborators, and leaders from across the industry gathered in Memphis to celebrate the life of producer Tay Keith.

On Tuesday, June 30, family, friends, collaborators, and leaders from across the music industry—including Gunna, Sexyy Red, Murda Beatz, Turbo, Ryan Press of Warner Chappell Music, and songwriter Cambrian Strong, alongside Tennessee State Representative Justin J. Pearson—gathered at the Cannon Center for the Performing Arts in Memphis. There, they celebrated the life of producer BryTavious “Tay Keith” Chambers, who was found dead in his Nashville apartment last month.

The memorial service honored the Memphis-born producer whose groundbreaking work helped define the sound of a generation of hip-hop. The service featured prayer by Apostle Kevin Davidson, musical tributes from Link Fisher III & The Royal Family, Kevin Davidson & The Voices, and heartfelt reflections from family, friends, and more.

Tennessee State Representative Justin J. Pearson presented a special proclamation recognizing Chambers’ extraordinary contributions to music, culture, and the State of Tennessee. Memphis Mayor Paul Young also honored Chambers with an official proclamation celebrating his lasting impact on the city, the music industry, and generations of creators. The Dean of Middle Tennessee State University, Beverly Keel, reflected on Chambers’ legacy as a proud alumnus, honorary professor, and mentor whose influence continues to inspire future generations of music creators.

The service drew an outpouring of love from across Memphis and the music community. Following the ceremony, family and friends gathered for a private burial and repast. Chambers was laid to rest by members of his Drumatized team, who served as pallbearers in honor of their friend and collaborator.

Just days earlier, Nashville’s Members SZN, the event collective Chambers co-founded, hosted an intimate tribute at the National Museum of African American Music, bringing together the Nashville community to celebrate his life, legacy, and immeasurable contributions to music and culture.

In a statement released following his passing, Chambers’ family remembered him as a “visionary producer, songwriter, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and cultural force whose work helped define the sound of a generation. From Memphis to the global stage, he shaped countless hit records and left a lasting mark on music and culture.”

Chambers became one of hip-hop’s most in-demand beatmakers, collaborating with artists like Drake, Eminem, BlocBoy JB, Sexxy Red, and many more. His contributions to modern hip-hop earned him widespread recognition as both a creative force and a cultural ambassador for Memphis. He was just 29 years old.