Memorial Service Honors Memphis Producer Tay Keith, Who Died at 29

On June 30, the Cannon Center for the Performing Arts in Memphis became the backdrop for a somber gathering that paid tribute to Grammy‑nominated producer Brytavious “Tay Keith” Chambers. The ceremony, attended by family, friends, and industry colleagues, marked the 12‑day anniversary of his unexpected passing in Nashville on June 18.

The service drew high‑profile collaborators, including rappers Gunna and Sexyy Red, and producers Murda Beatz and others who had worked with Chambers on chart‑topping tracks. Local officials joined the proceedings; State Representative Justin J. Pearson and Mayor Paul Young of Memphis presented an official proclamation honoring Chambers’ influence on the city’s music scene.

Chambers, 29, was best known for producing Travis Scott’s 2018 hit “Sicko Mode,” which earned a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Song. He also produced BlocBoy JB’s “Look Alive” and Drake’s “Nonstop,” both of which reached the top five on the Billboard Hot 100. In 2023 he released the collaborative project Yung n Turnt with Lil Darius.

After the memorial, a private burial and repast were held outside the venue. Members of Drumatized, the independent label and music boutique founded by Chambers, laid him to rest. Drumatized had served as a platform for emerging songwriters, producers, and artists, reflecting Chambers’ commitment to mentorship.

The Chambers family released a statement on June 20 describing him as a visionary producer, songwriter, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and cultural force. The statement highlighted his dedication to mental‑health advocacy and cancer‑related causes, honoring his late mother’s memory. It also noted his role as a proud graduate and honorary professor at Middle Tennessee State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in 2018.

Nashville police confirmed the circumstances of Chambers’ death. Officers performed a welfare check at his apartment on June 18 and found him unresponsive. Police said no foul play was suspected and that an autopsy would determine the cause of death.

Industry reactions underscored Chambers’ influence on the Memphis rap revival of the late 2010s. In a 2018 interview with The FADER, he explained that his signature “Memphis slap” sound—rooted in Three 6 Mafia and DJ Squeeky—had attracted Drake’s attention for the “Look Alive” collaboration.

Chambers’ work extended beyond hip‑hop. He produced tracks for Beyoncé, Eminem, and other major artists, and his catalog includes eleven Billboard Hot 100 top‑ten hits. His publishing deal with Warner Chappell Music and BMI membership positioned him as a key figure in music licensing and royalty collection.

The memorial and subsequent burial marked the end of a brief but prolific career that reshaped the sound of contemporary rap. While the cause of death remains pending, the industry and community continue to recognize Chambers’ contributions through the music he created, the opportunities he fostered, and the cultural legacy he left behind.

The family has requested privacy during this time and will share further memorial arrangements later.