Chicago footwork mastermind DJ Rashad has died of a drug overdose, according to Complex, which first reported the news. Since then a rep from his label Hyperdub has confirmed to Billboard that they will release an official statement on Monday morning.
On April 26, DJ Godfather was scheduled to perform with Rashad, along with DJ Spinn, at Detroit’s Inhale Art Expo. Earlier that evening, he tweeted that sources had informed him that Rashad had passed earlier in the day from a drug overdose.
I’m hearing some very disturbing news I need a confirmation about….
— DJ Godfather (@DJ_Godfather) April 26, 2014
@DJShortstop DJ Rashad passed away
— DJ Godfather (@DJ_Godfather) April 26, 2014
@DJ_Godfather where you getting that from? just asking.
— khal bundy (@khal) April 26, 2014
@khal a few of his close peeps
— DJ Godfather (@DJ_Godfather) April 26, 2014
Though the news is still technically unconfirmed, musicians, writers, and music fans alike, including DJ Spinn and Chance the Rapper, who toured with DJ Rashad last fall, have been expressing condolences for DJ Rashad on Twitter. For many, the news is especially raw so soon after the death of house legend Frankie Knuckles earlier this month.
Music lost a legend today. And he was my friend. Love you DJ Rashad. RIP
— Chance The Rapper (@chancetherapper) April 27, 2014
A pioneer and integral member of footwork, juke-informed house music characterized by rhythmic complexity and experimental sounds that got its name from the dance style of feet moving at breakneck speed, DJ Rashad released his last LP, “Double Cup,” late last year. Earlier this month he dropped the EP “We On 1.”
[Billboard]
