A commemorative Boiler Room is set to take place tomorrow morning (Aus time) to celebrate the life and achievements of footwork/juke pioneer DJ Rashad, who tragically passed away over the weekend. DJ Rashad was no stranger to Boiler Room events, having featured in several of their broadcasts.

The Boiler Room website states, “a friend and hero of ours at Boiler Room passed away on Sunday; Rashad Harden was 34. Four collaborators and close friends come together for the start of Oneman’s residency to pay tribute”. It is set to be the first of a month long Boiler Room residency for UK deck head Oneman, and will feature the Rinse FM regular alongside Hyperdub head honcho Kode 9, Ikonika, and Addison Groove.

At only 34 the Chicago native had already carved out an impressive anthology of originals and established himself as a legend following the release of his powerfully inventive and truly unique full-length footwork release Double Cup last year. The cause of death has yet to be determined following an autopsy of the producer, however police suspect Rashad died from a drug overdose as “drugs and drug paraphernalia were found near the body.”

Heartfelt sentiments have been shared from some of the industry’s biggest names, as Rashad’s presence was undoubtedly significant. A-Trak stated that Rashad “was in a unique place: he was able to build those rare bridges out of Chicago’s sacred but often insular scene. Beloved and respected by all, he brought a youthful open-mindedness to the juke and footwork sound…His sudden and unexpected passing leaves a gaping hole in our hearts. He was a true ambassador.”

Fellow Chicagoan Brenmar laments Rashad’s passing, referring to the producer as “a close friend, an inspiration, and one of the friendliest people I’ve known. He made some of the most uncompromising music, and influenced thousands in the process. One can only imagine where he would’ve taken us musically.”

It’s guaranteed to be a highly emotional event, but nevertheless a worthy celebration and commemoration of an amazing career and life.

 

Source: Pitchfork I II