Kenyon Tennessee, a 23-year-old African American rapper known as Kenny Lou, was fatally shot on November 27, 2018, in the parking lot of Club Onyx in southwest Houston, Texas. Tennessee and fellow rapper Nicholas Esene, known as Ghost, were both killed in a drive-by shooting around 4:30 a.m. The two men were sitting in a Mercedes-Benz when two gunmen approached them from behind and fired at least 13 shots into the car.
The suspects, who were wearing dark clothing, fled the scene on foot.
Police found weapons inside the vehicle, but no arrests have been made in connection with the murders. Investigators believe the shooting may have been gang-related, as both Tennessee and Esene were known to be members of a gang. Surveillance footage from the club and surrounding areas is being reviewed in hopes of identifying the suspects.
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and the investigation is ongoing. Family members and friends of the victims have expressed their grief and shock over the tragic deaths. Tennessee's family described him as a young man who was trying to turn his life around through his music and mentorship of local students. Despite his past involvement in gang activities, he was making efforts to leave that life behind and pursue a career in rap music.
The loss of Kenyon Tennessee and Nicholas Esene has left a significant impact on their families and the Houston rap community. The case continues to be a priority for local law enforcement, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to help solve the murders.
