Published
Tue, Jul 18, 2023, 08:15
- Tributes have poured in for the Chicago legend, who passed away in hospital surrounded by family and friends.
DJ Deeon, the ghetto house pioneer and revered electronic artist, died in hospital earlier today, July 18th.
The news was confirmed earlier this morning via Deeon's Facebook page. "Admin Jim here," the post read. "I'm 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."
While Deeon's age or cause of death weren't specified, the Chicago artist has suffered from well-publicised health issues such as diabetes and pneumonia in recent years, even launching a crowdfunder in 2020. Last Thursday, he posted a photo from hospital via Instagram.
Drawing inspiration from Miami bass, southern rap and Chicago house, Deeon helped pioneer the ghetto house sound in the early '90s alongside the likes of DJ Funk, DJ Milton and DJ Slugo. Some of his notable tracks, released on labels such as Dance Mania, Teklife and Numbers, include "Freak Like Me," "WANNA GO BANG," "House-O-Matic," "Let Me Bang" and "Ride This MF." He continued to put out music right up until his death, releasing four EPs in 24 hours as recently as May.
Revisit "Let Me Bang," and read some tributes to Deeon.