Dayvon Daquan Bennett (August 9, 1994 – November 6, 2020), known professionally as King Von, was an American rapper and songwriter from Chicago, Illinois. Rising from challenging circumstances, King Von became a significant voice in Chicago’s drill music scene, blending vivid storytelling with raw emotion. Despite his promising music career, his life was tragically cut short at the age of 26 due to a shooting incident in Atlanta, Georgia.
Early Life
King Von was born on August 9, 1994, in Chicago, Illinois. Raised in the South Side neighborhood of Parkway Gardens, also known as “O’Block,” his upbringing was marked by the challenges of urban poverty and violence. He often incorporated his life experiences into his music, giving a voice to his community.
Musical Career
King Von’s music career began under the mentorship of fellow Chicago rapper Lil Durk, who signed him to his label, Only the Family (OTF). His breakthrough single, Crazy Story (2019), catapulted him to fame, showcasing his talent for gripping narratives. He released his debut mixtape, Grandson, Vol. 1, in 2019, which further solidified his place in the drill music scene.
In 2020, King Von released his debut studio album, Welcome to O’Block, which included hits like Took Her to the O and All These Niggas. The album was critically acclaimed for its introspection and storytelling. Posthumously, his second studio album, What It Means to Be King (2022), was released to honor his legacy.
Personal Life
King Von was the father of three children. Known for his loyalty to friends and family, he maintained close ties to his community even after achieving fame. His music often reflected the struggles and complexities of his life in Chicago.
Death
On November 6, 2020, King Von was involved in an altercation outside an Atlanta nightclub that escalated into gunfire. He succumbed to his injuries, marking a devastating end to a career that had just begun to flourish. His death sent shockwaves through the hip-hop community and underscored the broader issue of violence affecting young artists.
Legacy
Despite his brief career, King Von left an indelible mark on the music world. His storytelling ability and authentic portrayal of life in Chicago have earned him a lasting fan base. His posthumous works and influence on drill music continue to resonate with listeners worldwide.
Discography
- Grandson, Vol. 1 (2019)
- Levon James (2020)
- Welcome to O’Block (2020)
- What It Means to Be King (2022, posthumous)
Notable Singles
- Crazy Story (2019)
- Took Her to the O (2020)
- Armed & Dangerous (2020)
- All These Niggas (2020)
