Griselda’s longtime DJ and producer DJ Shay has reportedly passed away due to complications with COVID-19. On Wednesday (August 19), associates paid tribute to the Buffalo native on social media, including Griselda founder Westside Gunn.
“U was there EVERY step of the way,” he said. “It was an honor to help your dream come true for Buffalo Hip Hop, u looked at me and said ‘thx to you it’s no more Unsigned city… it’s signed city now.'”
He also gave credit to Shay for the success of the label by the work that he’s put in over the years.
“U wanted this shit more than ALL of US,” Gunn said. “It wouldn’t be a Benny, WSG, Armani, Conway, BSF if it wasn’t for You to watch u DJ was special it was like u were a kid behind those boards.”
Benny The Butcher shared a message saying how important Shay has been to him throughout his life.
“This hurt right here this was my mentor coach father figure all tht I feel like somebody stole something from me,” Benny said.
Shay produced Benny’s “Crowns for Kings” with Black Thought and “18 Wheeler” with Pusha T, both on last year’s The Plugs I Met EP.
DJ Premier paid tribute by posting a video from his Shade 45 show, in which he tells Shay how much he loves “18 Wheeler.”
“This Covid Shit Is So Foul,” Premo said in the caption. “Salute To The Entire Griselda and BSF Family… You Made Buffalo, NY Proud!!! OFFICIAL BUFFALO KIDS. Sleep Peacefully King 🙏🏾 WE LOVE YOU SHAY!!!”