DJ Kay Slay, a pioneering hip-hop icon, has died. He was 55.
The disc jockey and record executive, whose real name was Keith Grayson, died Sunday evening after a four-month battle withCOVID-19.
They added: “In memory of DJ Kay Slay, our family wishes to thank all of his friends, fans, and supporters for their prayers and well wishes during this difficult time. We ask that you respect our privacy as we grieve this tragic loss.”
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Born on Aug. 14, 1966, in New York City, DJ Kay Slay released his first project,The Streetsweeper, Vol. 1, in 2003.
He then went on to share numerous other studio albums during his career, including,The Streetsweeper, Vol. 2,More Than Just a DJ,The Big BrotherandHip Hop Frontline. The star’s most recent album,The Soul Controller, was released in 2021.
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DJ Kay Slay is also believed to have “released over 500 bootleg mixtapes,“Faderreported. The outlet said that he began selling them on street corners in New York’s West Village starting in 1993, and they reportedly featured artists among the likes ofEminem,50 CentandJAY-Z.
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DJ Kay Slay — who was also nicknamed The Drama King — also took part in hosting “The Drama Hour” on Hot 97 for over two decades. In a statement, the New York-based radio station remembered his work ethic and legacy.
“A cultural icon, Kay Slay was more than just a DJ, to us he was family and a vital part of what made Hot 97 the successful station it is today,” the statement added. “Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and fans worldwide and we will always and forever celebrate The Drama King’s legacy.”
source: people.com
