This seems to be a really unfortunate month in the world of Dance Music. After losing the legend, DJ Frankie Knuckles, the Dance Music world has now lost Chicago Footwork pioneer, DJ Rashad.
According to the official statement, DJ Rashad, born Rashad Hanif Harden, passed away at 1:30 p.m. on Chicago’s Lower West Side. He leaves behind a nine-year-old son, Chad, and his parents, Gloria and Anthony Harden. Results of an autopsy over the weekend proved inconclusive, though it is suspected Rashad died of a drug overdose due to “drugs and drug paraphernalia found near the body,” the Chicago police told the Chicago Sun-Times.
A pioneer and integral member of footwork, juke-informed house music characterized by rhythmic complexity and experimental sounds that got its name from the dance style of feet moving at breakneck speed.
The news initially broke out on social media when DJ Godfather, who was scheduled to play alongside Rashad and DJ Spinn in Detroit on Saturday evening, tweeting the sad news to his followers.
R.I.P. to my long time friend DJ Rashad. Great friend & producer. I loved all the music we released over the years. U will be missed!
— DJ Godfather (@DJ_Godfather) April 27, 2014
DJs, Producers and acts including Chance The Rapper, A Trak and Kaytranada have all tweeted tributes to Rashad via Twitter since the news broke.
Music lost a legend today. And he was my friend. Love you DJ Rashad. RIP
— Chance The Rapper (@chancetherapper) April 27, 2014
DJ Rashad built so many bridges for Chicago music. He wasn’t just a legend he continued to innovate. This is really sad.
— We All Fall Down (@atrak) April 27, 2014
https://twitter.com/KAYTRANADA/statuses/460228333033500672
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