DJ Randall passed away on July 31, 2024, at 54. The devastating news was confirmed to Resident Advisor by a representative of the late artist on Thursday, August 1, 2024. Renowned for his pioneering work in drum & bass and often hailed as “the godfather of breakbeat,” DJ Randall’s death has deeply affected the music community.
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Who was DJ Randal?
Randall McNeil born on April 2, 1970, and passed away on July 31, 2024, widely recognized as DJ Randall, was a renowned British jungle and drum and bass DJ and record producer.
Randal McNeil Biography
Randall discovered DJ scratching and mixing in the late 1980s. His first experience with acid house music was at the 1987 Notting Hill Carnival, sparking his interest in buying records and following other DJs. He made his debut performance at the ‘Delirium’ warehouse parties in Stratford, East London. This also led to his first pirate radio appearance on Centreforce in 1989.
What FamMade Him Rose To Fame
Randall quickly gained popularity on Rave FM and Rinse FM. By 1989, he secured a position at Centreforce. In 1991, he co-founded the De Underground record label with DJs Cool Hand Flex, Uncle 22, and Mike De Underground, involving a record shop in Forest Gate. This shop received a “heritage plaque” in 2021 for its significant contributions to UK hardcore, jungle, and drum & bass music.
In 1994, Randall collaborated with emerging artist Andy C on the track “Sound Control.” He later launched another record label, “Mac2 Recordings,” with Cool Hand Flex. Randall’s influence in the drum & bass scene was widely acknowledged by artists like Andy C and Nia Archives. Tributes from fans, fellow DJs, friends, and colleagues poured in, celebrating his impactful career.
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About His Devastating Death And Cause
Despite confirmation of DJ Randall’s passing by his representatives, the cause of his death remains undisclosed. Adding to the mystery, Randall was not known to be suffering from any serious illnesses before his death. He remained active and was performing right up until his final days, even participating in an Outlook Origins boat party just days before his passing.
He had also been scheduled to perform at a Drum and Bass Classics event on August 24. While the exact circumstances of DJ Randall’s death remain unclear, his significant impact on electronic music is undeniable.
Conclusion
Tributes from fans, fellow DJs, friends, and colleagues have been pouring in, celebrating his immense contributions and mourning his untimely death. DJ Randall’s legacy in the electronic music world remains indelible, reflecting the significant mark he left on the industry.
FAQs About DJ Randall
- Who was DJ Randall? DJ Randall, born Randall McNeil, was a pioneering British drum & bass DJ and producer.
- What was he known for? He was known for his influential role in the drum & bass and jungle music scenes and was called “the godfather of breakbeat.”
- When did he die? DJ Randall passed away on July 31, 2024, at 54.
- Was he active before his death? Yes, he was active and performing up until his final days, including at an Outlook Origins boat party.
- What was his impact on music? DJ Randall significantly influenced drum & bass and jungle music, founding record labels and inspiring many artists.
