Ghetto house pioneer DJ Deeon has died

News of the Chicago artist’s passing was confirmed via his Facebook page earlier today (18 July).

Legendary electronic artist and ghetto house pioneer DJ Deeon has died. A post on his social media read, “Admin Jim here. I am sorry to announce the legendary artist, producer, DJ, label owner, and my friend Deeon “DJ Deeon” Boyd gained his wings today. The family thanks you for your support and will announce arrangements in the coming days. Thank you for your understanding.”

Real name Deeon Boyd, the dance music legend grew up on Chicago’s South Side and was instrumental in pioneering the ghetto house sound in the 90s’ alongside contemporaries such as DJ Slugo, DJ Funk, Parris Milton and Traxman. Over the years he released tracks via imprints such as Dance Mania – via which he put out tunes including Bomb 96, Freak Like Me, Wicked, Back 2 Skool and House-o-matic – as well as releases on Teklife, Numbers and Chiwax. His work was hugely influential to Daft Punk and he was named on the duo’s track Teachers from their 1997 album Homework.

Earlier this year DJ Deeon put out four EPs in the space of two days, releasing an extensive 25 new tracks.

Last Thursday, Boyd shared a post from hospital via his Instagram with the caption “pray for me” and had previously spoken about ill health in recent years. Following the news of his passing, tributes have been paid to the dance music pioneer. Read a selection of tributes below.

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