Autopsy: Tay Keith Died of Accidental Overdose
The cause of death for producer Tay Keith has been revealed as an accidental drug overdose, according to an autopsy report. The Memphis hitmaker, born Brytavious Lakeith Chambers, died in June at age 29. He was known for producing hits like Travis Scott's 'Sicko Mode' and had 11 Hot 100 top 10s.
The autopsy, released Thursday, attributed the producer’s death to a combination of kratom-related compounds and ketamine, with the medical examiner ruling it accidental. Authorities had already dismissed foul play after finding him unresponsive during a wellness check in his Nashville apartment. His family’s statement emphasized his roles as a visionary and philanthropist, noting his work shaped a generation of sound from Memphis to the global stage.
Keith’s career peaked in the late 2010s with a booming trap style that anchored numerous chart-toppers. He earned 11 Hot 100 top 10s, four No. 1s, and two Grammy nominations, while also leading the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart with six No. 1s this decade—more than any other producer.
This news could deepen conversations about the pressures and health risks facing high-profile music producers, who often work in demanding, substance-accessible environments. Fans and industry peers may grapple with the loss of a creative force, potentially prompting more open dialogue about mental health and overdose prevention within hip-hop. The case may also influence how media and labels address artist well-being, though its broader societal impact remains uncertain.