DNB legend MC Conrad has died, it has been confirmed.
The UK musician – real name Conrad Thompson – was 52 years old. His passing has been confirmed by multiple sources, including family and friends. No cause of death has yet been confirmed.
MC Conrad was a crucial figure in the advancement of drum ‘n bass, first entering rave as a precocious Midlands youth. Blending his Black Caribbean heritage with new electronic sounds, his helped guide jungle into the multi-faceted form of DNB we know today.
A magnificent MC, his stature only seemed to increase with time – a true legend, he formed an incredible partnership with LTJ Bukem, releasing a string of seminal anthems.
Continually curious about music, he produced under the alter ego Con*Natural, in addition to leading the digital-first label Resonance, designed to platform new talent.
The bass world has paused to pay its respects to MC Conrad.
DJ Zinc writes: “RIP MC Conrad. Legendary voice, and a nice bloke. gutted. rest easy mate…”
DJ Mag EIC Carl Loben adds: “And we’ve lost MC Conrad now – way too soon. His soulful lyrical flow in tandem with LTJ Bukem, letting the music breathe, was the antithesis to a lot of MCs at the time. Latterly getting into production & running his own label, he’ll be sorely missed. RIP”
Close friend Karis O’Hara mourns his passing: “Conrad, my friend.. we chatted weeks ago about collaborating on a track, and then he went quiet. only to hear the devastating news today… he was kind to me, especially during covid. thank you for being a light, and the words & music. rip MC Conrad, you’ll be missed…”
Jungle and DNB pioneers 2 Bad Mice add: “RIP to one of the originals and best to do it MC Conrad.”
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