Keith Grayson, better known as DJ Kay Slay, died Sunday evening after a four-month battle with COVID-19, according to his family and music station Hot 97.
According to Hot 97’s website, Grayson, also known as the “Drama King,” grew up in Harlem and advanced in his professional life by officiating the greatest MC battles on his Streetsweeper mixtapes. For more than 20 years, he hosted “The Drama Hour” on Hot 97.
“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,” Hot 97 said in a statement. “Our hearts go out to his family, friends and fans worldwide and we will always and forever celebrate The Drama King’s legacy.”
Grayson’s first two studio albums, Street Sweepers Volumes 1 & 2, were released by Columbia/Sony Records. According to Hot 97’s website, he continued to work in talent scouting for notable figures like Shaquille O’Neal and Ray J all through his career, getting praise from other large hip-hop DJs for signing successful artists and winning numerous “Justo’s Mixtape Awards.”
“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,” his family said in a statement.
“Straight Stuntin’ Magazine,” a quarterly magazine that highlights interviews with leading hip-hop artists and models, was founded by Grayson. According to Hot 97’s website, he recently linked two NYC rivals on his hit single, “Free Again,” which showcases Fat Joe and 50 Cent.
