Over the weekend, hip hop legend and our HOT 97 family member Keith Grayson, best known as DJ Kay Slay passed away at 55-years-old.
His family released this statement through HOT 97:
Our hearts are broken by the passing of Keith Grayson, professionally known as DJ Kay Slay. A dominant figure in Hip Hop culture with millions of fans worldwide, DJ Kay Slay will be remembered for his passion and excellence with a legacy that will transcend generations. 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.The Grayson Family
The “Drama King” was first introduced to the world as one of the biggest graffiti artists in New York, and was featured in the 1983 documentary Style Wars. Years later he would find success as a DJ and publisher.
In the early-to-mid 2000’s the Harlem native became one of the most prominent DJ’s on the mixtape scene being knows for featuring exclusive, and unreleased music in his mixtapes. He also released his first two albums Streetsweeper Vol. 1 & 2 in 2003 and 2004 respectfully through his first deal with Violator Records.
Kay Slay released a total of six studio albums, and has worked with the top artists in hip hop over the years including Nas, Jadakiss, Fabolous, Busta Rhymes, Fat Joe, Foxy Brown, and many more over the years as well as Papoose who he had signed to the Streetsweepers imprint and released multiple mixtapes with. He also made a big impact on the hip hop community as the CEO of Straight Stuntin Magazine.
The legend also held a longstanding slot on HOT 97 with the Drama Hour.
HOT 97 is shocked and saddened by the loss of our beloved DJ Kay Slay. We cherish the many memories created through the twenty-plus years he dedicated to the “Drama Hour.” A cultural icon, The Streetsweeper 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. Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and fans worldwide and we will always and forever celebrate The Drama King’s legacy.Help us in sending prayers to friends and family and celebrating the life and impact of Keith Grayson aka DJ Kay Slay.