New details have emerged surrounding the death of Grammy-nominated hip-hop producer Tay Keith, nearly three months after the Memphis native was found dead at his Nashville apartment.
According to information from the Nashville Medical Examiner’s Office, Tay Keith died from the toxic effects of ketamine and mitragynine, a chemical compound found in kratom. The findings were released following an autopsy and toxicology examination.
Keith, whose real name was Brytavious Chambers, was just 29 years old when he was discovered inside his Nashville apartment on June 18, 2026. Officers had responded to the residence to conduct a welfare check. Police previously said they did not suspect foul play in his death.
Reports indicate that ketamine and mitragynine were detected in Keith’s system. Mitragynine is the primary active compound found in kratom, a plant native to Southeast Asia. Additional substances, including ethanol and nicotine, were reportedly detected, while the medical examination also noted mild coronary artery disease.
It remains unclear whether Keith intentionally consumed kratom or whether the substance entered his system through another source.
A Major Loss for Hip-Hop
Tay Keith became one of the most recognizable producers of his generation after emerging from Memphis’ rap scene. His production credits included major records such as Travis Scott’s “Sicko Mode,” Drake’s “Nonstop,” BlocBoy JB and Drake’s “Look Alive,” and Sexyy Red’s “Pound Town.”
His work on “Sicko Mode” earned him a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Song, and he later received another nomination for his production work on Drake and 21 Savage’s “Rich Flex.”
Keith also worked with an extensive list of artists throughout his career, including Beyoncé, Cardi B, Eminem, Future and Megan Thee Stallion.
Following news of his death in June, artists, producers and longtime collaborators shared tributes honoring his impact on hip-hop. His family remembered him not only for his music but also for his work supporting emerging artists and producers.
Tay Keith was 29.
(Photo by DAVID SWANSON / AFP via Getty Images)
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