D.R.E.S. Tha Beatnik, Atlanta’s beloved hip-hop icon and beatboxer, passes away after a battle with kidney disease

Atlanta hip-hop icon D.R.E.S. Tha Beatnik passed away on June 9, 2025, after a long battle with chronic kidney disease. Tha Beatnik was a key figure in Atlanta's underground scene, known for his beatboxing, emceeing, and cultural contributions.

Hip-hop artists like Killer Mike, Pete Rock, Trackstar the DJ, and Big Gipp paid tribute to him. D.R.E.S., originally from Philadelphia, moved to Atlanta and became a cultural force. He was a world-class beatboxer, working with legends like Rahzel and Scratch, and winning the Amateur World Beatbox Championship. He was also a popular host and producer, best known for hosting the World Famous Mic Club at Club Apache.

Beyond music, D.R.E.S. organized events like "Beats, Brews, and Views," bringing together creatives through music, film, and food. Despite his health issues, he remained upbeat, sharing updates with fans and staying involved with his community.