Dayvon Bennett, better known by his stage name of King Von, was one of Chicago’s most dynamic rappers. His intricate, tales-filled narratives provided the soundtrack for some of its toughest neighborhoods.
His deft storytelling caught the attention of Lil Durk, who signed Von to his Only The Family label.
Von’s 2019 singles showcased his dynamic flows and cadences that fit well within his local scene (G Herbo, Chief Keef and King Louie are examples) while still standing out. However, his style remained unique.
His Life
Born in Chicago, King Von’s life shaped him into one of the most talented young artists during the golden era of drill music. While his father was imprisoned during most of his youth, he spent much of his formative years living with his mother and other relatives.
His fluid storytelling style caught the attention of established rapper Lil Durk, who signed him to Only the Family label. Since releasing viral single Crazy Story he has worked on his debut mixtape Levon James and 2020 album Welcome to O’Block.
King Von collaborated with notable artists like Polo G and DaBaby throughout his career, writing lyrics that vividly described life in Englewood area of Chicago. Additionally, he was an accomplished businessman, running several enterprises including apparel lines and food vending machines while supporting artists and entrepreneurs as a backer. Alongside rapping, King Von also took part in social activism activities.
His Music
King von autopsy was one of a select group of Chicago rappers who provided communities with cathartic songs that captured real-life experience and catharsis. At 26 years old, this gangsta rapper’s style captured that same unnerved reality as Lil Durk on OTF label.
In 2018, Durk released his breakthrough single “Crazy Story.” That same year, he signed to Durk’s Only the Family record label.
Subsequently, in September of 2019, he released Grandson Vol 1 mixtape. Fans gave it high marks and it charted at 75 on Billboard.
Welcome to O’Block is his 2020 album and it includes contributions from YNW Melly, NLE Choppa, Polo G, A Boogie Wit da Hoodie and Moneybagg Yo. A testament to both his sound and impactful story; prior to its release he teased it via social media before its full-length arrival in November that same year.
His Death
MTO News reported that Von’s children from two separate mothering partners attended his private funeral and were visibly distraught as they watched his casket being lowered into the ground. A source also informed MTO News that this funeral had been organized with safety in mind to ensure everyone who attended could attend with peace.
Dayvon Daquan Bennett, more commonly known by his stage name King Von, first made waves in his hometown’s drill scene through his captivating storytelling. Lil Durk discovered King Von and signed him to Only the Family record label before releasing “Crazy Story”, his breakout single from 2018 which went viral online. Welcome to O’Block was then released.
On November 6, 2020, a 26-year-old was shot and killed during a fight outside of Atlanta’s Monaco Hookah Lounge, believed by authorities to be part of a rival gang crew in what police believe to be an ongoing gang feud. A video that surfaced online depicted two groups wrestling before shots being fired between them before eventually helping him into a vehicle and driving him away.
Remains
King Von’s sudden and untimely passing has created a tremendous void in Hip-Hop. The Chicago rapper was just starting to establish himself and demonstrate what made him special; his acclaimed single “Crazy Story” cemented his place as one of the premier storytellers, while his sinister drill production created vivid visuals using sound.
Von’s untimely death was met with great sorrow from both friends and fans alike, including rapper YG who tweeted about how hard it had hit to lose him.
His death is just the latest example in a string of young rappers killed from drugs or other issues, which is both tragic and disheartening. We can only hope that more young rappers find strength to avoid following in his footsteps by understanding risks and taking necessary precautions to protect themselves.
