A complex world, Chicago’s juke and footwork scenes has become the source of huge creative energy.
A deeply alien environment to outsiders, a handful of artists have helped to take the sound global.
DJ Rashad was a continual advocate for Chicago club culture, someone who fused juke and footwork with radical new sounds.
Sadly, reports are coming through that DJ Rashad has passed away. Only 35, it’s a cruel and truly tragic loss for electronic music.
Here’s a statement from Hyperdub:
DJ Rashad aka Rashad Hanif Harden, 34-years-old (born October 9, 1979), the Calumet City, IL-based DJ and producer, passed away around 1:30 PM Saturday, April 26, 2014 on Chicago’s Lower West Side. He leaves behind a nine-year-old son, Chad and his parents, mother Gloria Harden, and father, Anthony Harden. The cause of his death has not yet been determined.
Kode9 added: "I was honored to release music from Rashad on Hyperdub. I've only known him for around 3 years, but he had become a good friend and one of my biggest musical influences. He was one of the funniest, most positive people I've ever met and a true innovator. Everyone at the label is devastated by his passing and wish to send our sincere condolences to all his friends and family in Chicago, the Teklife crew and anyone anywhere who was graced by his presence and uplifted by his music. I'll never forget singing duet with him in a karaoke bar in Tokyo."
And here’s a selection of tributes:
Our thoughts go out to all @DJRASHAD's friends and family on this sad day. #RIPDJRASHAD We've lost one of the best producers of our day.
— Planet Mu (@Planetmurecords) April 27, 2014
Music lost a true legend today. RIP DJ Rashad. Your legacy lives on.
— Ninja Tune (@ninjatune) April 27, 2014
Feels unreal to type this but: RIP DJ Rashad. One of the very best around. Our deepest condolences to all loved ones. Your legacy prevails
— BOILER ROOM (@boilerroomtv) April 27, 2014
