DJ Kay Slay's sudden death shocked the hip-hop community for the past few days. With tributes on social media, it is undeniable that the music hero was a beloved figure in the industry.
DJ Kay Slay Death Due to COVID
Last Easter Sunday, rumors about DJ Kay Slay's death took over social media by storm. Until veteran Hip-hop producer Van Silk, a close friend of the DJ, confirmed the news to HipHopDX.
Keith Grayson, more commonly known as DJ Kay Slay, succumbed to death after a four-month battle with COVID-19.
After being hospitalized in December 2021, the 55-year-old music executive spent months attached to a ventilator to aid him in his breathing.
Per Van Silk, who knew Grayson when they were still 16 years old, "Hip Hop lost a real gem."
"My dear brother is gone. I've known him since he was 16 years old. He was my little brother. I introduced him to many, and we did a lot of things together. We last talked December because we were finishing up the 200 rolling deep project. He was gonna do his video part with MC Sha-Rock," he elaborated.
Initial reports of DJ Kay Slay's death came from music producer Wack 100.
However, this is not the first time Wack 100 has taken to social media to announce his late friend's critical condition.
When Grayson was hospitalized in 2021, Wack 100 asked for prayers on Instagram for the then-critical rapper.
However, the claim that he is already knocking on heaven's door was later debunked by the DJ's brother, Kwame Grayson.
Four months after, the beloved rapper, music producer, and graffiti artist became one of the many music figures who lost to the catastrophic global pandemic.
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DJ Kay Slay COVID Death Memorial in Harlem
Tweets reminiscing the legacy of the legendary hip hop icon poured over Twitter, with music producers offering their flowers to the late artist.
But the tributes online do not stop there - DJ Kay Slay will have a public procession and ceremony for the public to take part in.
On Sunday (Apr. 24, 2022), a week after his sudden death, a memorial service and procession will occur.
A car, horse & carriage public procession will start on 125th Street and head towards East Harlem for the memorial service.
The ceremony will take place at the legendary Apollo Teater in Harlem from 10:00 a.m ET until noontime.
More information about the service can be seen on Hot97's Instagram page.
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