BRIGHTON MUSIC CONFERENCE ANNOUNCE FIRST WAVE OF SPEAKERS AND NEW HEALTH, WELLBEING AND LIFESTYLE FOCUS

Get ready for an unforgettable experience at the Brighton Music Conference (BMC), the UK’s premier electronic music and networking extravaganza!

We are thrilled to unveil the first wave of speakers and session topics for our highly anticipated 12th edition, set to take place from 21st to 23rd May 2025.

This award-winning event is your gateway to connect with industry-leading professionals and dive into a dynamic programme filled with enlightening talks, hands-on workshops, and invaluable networking opportunities.

At BMC, we pride ourselves on creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect hub for emerging talent in the electronic music scene, all at an affordable ticket price.

“We are passionate about nurturing the next generation of talent and guiding them on their career journeys,” shares BMC founder Billy Mauseth.

BMC is not just an event; it’s the ideal launchpad for your career, where you can stay ahead of the latest industry trends, expand your network, forge new connections, and immerse yourself in everything electronic music has to offer.

“Our vision has always been to create an inclusive event where everyone feels at home.

BMC is like a family, radiating a relaxed and friendly vibe that invites everyone to come together to learn, be inspired, network, and revel in incredible music and DJ sets.

The 2025 edition is set to shine a spotlight on Health, Wellbeing, and Lifestyle, creating a vital platform for sharing insights and engaging in meaningful discussions.

It’s no secret that those in the music industry face a higher risk of mental health challenges compared to the general population.

This new programme will delve into crucial topics such as Burnout, Neurodiversity, Mental Health, Spiking, Motherhood Touring, and so much more. Duncan King from Skiddle expresses his enthusiasm, stating that Skiddle is thrilled to be the headline sponsor of the inaugural Health and Wellbeing Theatre at this year’s BMC.

As passionate advocates for enhancing health and wellbeing awareness within the industry, we are dedicated to fostering open dialogues, promoting better support and practices, and highlighting the remarkable individuals and organisations making a real difference in this space.

Billy Mauseth, BMC Director, adds his perspective, sharing that with personal experiences of friends and colleagues grappling with health and addiction issues, it became essential to address this topic more thoroughly at BMC.

We are truly grateful for Skiddle’s support in bringing this vision to life this year.

MJ COLE ANNOUNCES NEW UK TOUR

Join us in celebrating 25 incredible years of ‘Sincere’ as the talented MJ Cole embarks on a UK tour this year, honouring this timeless classic.

Originally released in December 2000, this Mercury-nominated album gave rise to unforgettable hits like ‘Sincere’, ‘Crazy Love’, and ‘Hold On To Me’. Now, MJ Cole is set to take us on a nostalgic journey with a highly anticipated tour kicking off at Bristol’s SWX on December 3.

The excitement continues as he brings the tour to Birmingham’s O2 Institute on December 4, Project House in Leeds on December 5, Manchester’s Albert Hall on December 6, and culminating in a spectacular finale at London’s KOKO on December 11.

This tour announcement follows a sold-out performance at London’s Jazz Cafe, leaving fans buzzing with anticipation. Keep an eye on MJ Cole’s Instagram, where he promises that these upcoming shows will feature some very special guests!

LOUIE VEGA TO AUCTION OFF RARE ITEMS INCLUDING TEST PRESSINGS, MUSIC GEAR AND MORE

Discover a truly extraordinary collection of rare and historic treasures, featuring the exclusive Louie Vega Diamond Pendant, a stunning piece crafted from 14K white gold and adorned with 290 natural black and white diamonds, personally signed by Louie himself.

This limited edition pendant, one of only ten in existence, boasts an estimated value of around £8,500.

Among the other remarkable items are the Allen Heath Xone V6 Mixer, which has accompanied Louie on his global tours, and the iconic Roland FP-8 keyboard, instrumental in creating some of his most celebrated tracks, including the unforgettable ‘Beautiful People’.

The collection also showcases a selection of test pressings and promo records, including a unique Masters at Work mix of Simply Red’s ‘Thrill Me’, along with 50 pieces of original studio artwork. Louie reflects on these items, stating, “They have been integral to my creative journey, travelling the world with me and connecting with my fans over the years. I trust they will find a new home with someone who will cherish them as I have. They represent a piece of my legacy. 

Roberta Flack, ’70s R&B Vocalist Known for ‘Killing Me Softly,’ Dies at 88

We mourn the loss of the iconic pop and R&B legend Roberta Flack, whose extraordinary talent catapulted her to fame in the early 1970s with unforgettable hits like The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face and Killing Me Softly With His Song. Sadly, she has passed away at the age of 88, as confirmed by a statement from her representative.

The cause of her passing has not been disclosed.

In the heartfelt words of her family, “We are devastated to share that the magnificent Roberta Flack left us this morning, February 24, 2025.

She departed peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones. Roberta was a trailblazer who shattered records and inspired countless lives. She was also a dedicated educator, sharing her passion with the next generation.”

Though her rise to fame came later in life, Roberta’s remarkable talent was first recognised when Clint Eastwood featured her stunning rendition of The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face in his directorial debut, Play Misty for Me, in 1971.

Her voice continues to resonate, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music.

Angie Stone dead at 63: The Grammy winning singer-songwriter killed in car accident following a performance in Alabama

It is with great sadness that we share the news of Angie Stone’s untimely passing.

The beloved artist, renowned as a member of the legendary hip-hop trio The Sequence, tragically lost her life in a car accident at the age of 63 after a performance in Montgomery, Alabama.

Deborah R. Champagne, her representative, confirmed this heartbreaking news to TMZ on Saturday.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning, leaving her family and friends utterly devastated. Stone’s spokesperson revealed that many of her loved ones had spoken to her just the night before, making this loss even more poignant.

International Women in Music Day

28th March

Women possess musical talent that rivals that of men, yet the music industry remains a landscape where their contributions have often been overlooked or diminished.

International Women in Music Day, established in 2008, gained significant recognition by 2020 when it was embraced by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) as part of their celebratory events.

This special day is celebrated in March to align with the United Nations International Women’s Day, which is observed on the 8th of March each year.

The essence of this day lies in championing and honouring the remarkable women who have shaped the music world, often in the face of a glass ceiling that seeks to limit their potential.

Conversations surrounding this day highlight the urgent need to bridge the gender gap in the music industry, ensuring that women secure their rightful place and achieve equality in this vibrant sector of entertainment.

Disco and soul singer Gwen McCrae has died aged 81

Gwen McCrae, a remarkable talent hailing from Florida, is best known for her iconic 1975 hit “Rockin’ Chair.” However, this powerhouse vocalist has been captivating audiences for decades with her rich, soulful voice and infectious dance tracks, earning her a devoted fanbase across both the US and Europe.

Born in the vibrant city of Pensacola, Florida, McCrae’s musical journey began in her teenage years, performing in local clubs with groups like The Lafayettes and The Independents. Her big break came when she signed with TK Records alongside her husband George, where she made waves on the R&B charts with her 1970 single “Lead Me On.” Just two years later, she released “Always on My Mind,” a song that would later be immortalised by legends like Elvis Presley and the Pet Shop Boys. But it was 1975’s “Rockin’ Chair” that truly put her on the map, marking her only foray into the US singles charts. Despite this, she became a beloved figure in the British rare groove scene throughout the ’80s and ’90s, even releasing two singles on the renowned London label Rhythm King Records in 1987. McCrae’s passion for music never waned, as she continued to perform and record until 2012, when a stroke sadly affected her ability to walk and sing. Yet, her incredible catalogue has been sampled by a diverse array of artists, from Lady Gaga and Avicii to Madlib, Cypress Hill, and Mobb Deep.

New exhibition documenting ‘80s-’90s club culture lands in Liverpool

A new exhibition chronicling Liverpool club culture through the ‘80s and ‘90s has opened up at the city’s Open Eye Gallery.

‘Rave On’ is described as a celebration of “the legacy and lasting impact of rave culture in Liverpool throughout the 1980s and 90s”, on show now through until March 9.

The exhibition – curated by writer, curator, and DJ Ezra McConachie with support from the Museum of Youth Culture features photography, memorabilia, flyers, and film spanning two decades, from the acid house era to legendary nights in Quadrant Park

Rave On is a vibrant celebration of the local photography scene, showcasing the incredible work of both passionate punters and the renowned Liverpool photographer Mark McNulty.

From the pulsating early house records that filled The State to the intimate back rooms of Bold Street, the unforgettable raves in Sefton Park, and the very first Earthbeat, this exhibition captures the essence of an era.

As McConachie beautifully puts it, Rave On brings to life the stories, emotions, and cherished memories of an entire generation who experienced this electrifying period.

This exhibition shines a spotlight on the vital role of youth culture and the cultural movement that blossomed alongside the rave scene from 1987 to 1999.

As we journey through these captivating moments, we not only honour the trailblazers of house music but also inspire the next generation of artists and enthusiasts to keep the spirit of the rave alive.

Join us in exploring the rich tapestry of our musical heritage, where every track resonates with a story and every beat ignites a memory that refuses to fade.

Back2House Radio Boss joins NYCs Deep House Magazine  as their 1st UK Representative and Journalist to shine a light on UK House Music Scene

Building invaluable connections, Back2House Radio’s Co-Owner and CEO, DJ / Producer MJ, has proudly stepped into the role of Official UK Representative and correspondent for NYC’s renowned Deep House Magazine.

A prominent name in the US Underground House scene, Deep House has made waves in cities like Baltimore, Chicago, and, of course, the vibrant heart of NYC.

The synergy between Deep House Magazine’s CEO, George Aiken, and Back2House Radio is palpable, with George regularly gracing our airwaves with his shows.

This collaboration has blossomed into a remarkable partnership, sparked by MJ’s exclusive interview featured in Deep House Magazine’s Winter Edition in November 2024.

By bridging the gap between the US and the UK, MJ is set to illuminate the vibrant UK Underground Scene, highlighting the ongoing impact, influence, and contributions that the UK House Scene has made—and continues to make—on the global landscape of House Music and the Underground scene.

From talented Producers to dynamic DJs, energetic Dance Crews to innovative Promoters, and influential Radio Stations to insightful

Publications, MJ’s vision is to ensure that the connection between the UK and the US remains strong and thriving.

While the UK has a wealth of knowledge about the US Music Industry, particularly in House Music and the Underground, the reverse is often not the case.

Our contributions to the Underground scene have been monumental, yet we remain the unsung heroes of this vibrant culture.

Yes, our efforts are acknowledged, but not to the extent they truly deserve. The UK has birthed genres that have profoundly shaped the music we hear today and will continue to resonate in the future, not just in the US but across the globe.

We are pioneers in so many ways. Let’s celebrate this

MJ’s inaugural interview in her new Correspondent role will feature in the May Edition of Deep House Magazine

and it promises to be an exciting read.

New Documentary to shine a light on the Record Store Culture and Black Music

Get ready for an exciting Documentary that’s about to drop!

This film shines a brilliant light on a topic that resonates deeply with DJs, music enthusiasts, collectors, and artists alike. Dive into the captivating history of England’s independent record stores that championed ‘Black Music’. Featuring insights from iconic figures like Jazzie B, Simon Dunmore, Trevor Nelson, Wookie, DJ Spoony, Marcia Carr, DJ SS, DJ Rap, Jeff Smith, DJ MJ, Jezta, and many more, this documentary is a must-see for anyone passionate about music and its rich heritage.

After months of dedicated filming, we are thrilled to announce that our highly anticipated documentary is set to premiere in London and Leicester this October 2024.

Managed by the innovative team at 2FunkyArts and produced by the legendary Simon ‘Schooly’ Phillips, a prominent DJ, presenter, and music industry icon, this film promises to be a captivating journey through the world of music.

Simon’s contributions to the industry are countless, and it’s hard to find anyone who isn’t familiar with his work. Titled The Record Store Black Music: England’s Taste Makers, this documentary will soon be gracing screens near you, so stay tuned for an unforgettable experience!

Fabric to commemorate 70th birthday of Frankie Knuckles with tribute event

London nightclub fabric is set to host a tribute event for the late Frankie Knuckles in 2025, commemorating what would have been his 70th birthday.

‘For Frankie’ will take place throughout the day on January 25, 2025, running from 2:PM until 10:PM at the Farringdon venue. As well as a celebration of the late DJ’s birthday, the event also marks 10 years since his tragic passing.

The party is set up by fabric and The Frankie Knuckles Foundation, a non-profit educational and cultural organisation described as a way to “advance Frankie’s mission as the global ambassador of house music through media, conservation, and public events”.

‘For Frankie’ features a line-up of some of Frankie Knuckles’ nearest and dearest, including his long-time production partner Eric Kupper, as well as friends including Tedd Patterson, CJ Mackintosh, Moplen, and Marcia Carr.

DJs set to perform on the night will fly into London from across the world, from New York to Chicago and Italy. A handful of special guests are still yet to be announced.

“I, along with the members of FKF, are thrilled and excited to celebrate this incredible occasion — honouring our beloved Frankie on his 70th heavenly birthday,” says CEO of The Frankie Knuckles Foundation, Frederick Dunson.

“This celebration stands as a true testament to his enduring legacy and the profound impact he has had on the world. We are continually amazed by the overwhelming outpouring of love and admiration he still receives,” he adds.

Frankie Knuckles was widely regarded as the “godfather of house”, a founding father of the Chicago house scene through the ‘70s where he held down a residency at legendary venue The Warehouse.

All proceeds from fabric’s event will be donated to The Frankie Knuckles Foundation. 

​Music industry workers to lose a quarter of income to AI by 2028, study finds

The music industry stands on the brink of a seismic shift, with projections indicating that workers could see nearly a quarter of their income vanish to the rise of AI by 2028.

This alarming insight comes from the first comprehensive global study examining the impact of artificial intelligence on the music and audiovisual sectors. As we look ahead, the findings reveal a stark reality: revenues for those in the industry are set to plummet, with music creators facing an anticipated income drop of 24%.

Meanwhile, professionals in the audiovisual realm are bracing for a 21% decrease in earnings due to the encroachment of AI technologies.

On the flip side, the market for generative AI services is expected to skyrocket, soaring from £3 billion to a staggering £64 billion by 2028.

This translates to a total loss of €22 billion—€10 billion in music and €12 billion in audiovisuals—while the generative AI market is poised for exponential growth.

Spearheaded by the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC), this pivotal research represents the voices of over 5 million creators in the music and audiovisual fields worldwide.

The study aims to gauge the economic ramifications of generative AI on creators of music and audiovisual productions on a global scale, blending both qualitative and quantitative insights.

As CISAC President Björn Ulvaeus aptly puts it, for creators ranging from songwriters to film directors, screenwriters to composers, AI holds the potential to unlock a realm of exciting new opportunities.

However, we must also recognise the risks; if left unchecked, generative AI could inflict significant harm on human creators, jeopardising their careers and livelihoods. In light of these challenges, it is crucial for the music community to rally together, advocating for fair practices and protections that safeguard the vibrancy of our cherished art form.

As we navigate this evolving landscape, let us celebrate the resilience and ingenuity of artists who continue to innovate and inspire, reminding us of the profound power of music to connect us all.

AIAIAI share their “Worlds First Wireless Earphones” for the DJ Industry

This month, the innovative Danish sound specialists at AIAIAI have unveiled what they proudly claim to be the world’s first wireless DJ headphones.

Introducing the TMA-2 DJ Wireless headphones, which harness cutting-edge ultra-low latency wireless technology to deliver an unparalleled delay-free experience for precise mixing. With an impressive 25-hour battery life and exceptional sound isolation, these headphones are meticulously crafted for the freedom of cable-free DJing.

A sleek box connects directly to the headphone jack of your mixer, transmitting audio to your headphones with virtually no delay—far superior to the lag often associated with standard Bluetooth connections.

Frederik Jørgensen, the visionary Founder of AIAIAI, shares his excitement: With the TMA-2 DJ Wireless, our mission was to create wireless DJ headphones that truly cater to the needs of DJs.

For far too long, wireless technology has meant sacrificing performance, but with our ultra-low latency wireless innovation, we can finally offer a solution that combines both freedom and precision.

This is a revolutionary leap for DJs eager to liberate themselves from cables.

“The Way You Love Me” 
Ace Shyllon Featuring Hannah Khemoh

Another HUGE Track from Metronoyz and Ace Shyllon ( Metronoyz Curator)!

Born in 2017 Metronoyz started out as a concept to have a live House Music jam with drum machines keyboards & synths making music on the fly. With performances at the Trafik Bar London & Aqaurium in London, this little idea suddenly became much more than that.

The story continues with Metronoyz Records brought to you and curated by DJ & Producer Ace Shyllon. Metronoyz is about exploring the many realms of House music and is a fusion of Soulful, Deep & Afro influenced music.
Their ethos is to Salute House Music.

The Label has worked with some great artists from around the world including Missfly, Anaya Weathers, Ms Yazz Roar, Vibrant C, Ed Ramsey, DJ Atomm, Fitz Da Kat, Sean Ashby, Ricardo Martinez and a host of others which keeps on growing.

From regular plays on radio stations across the world ,the label is spreading House Music far & wide.

This time around they are excited to present the debut release of the super talented Hannah Khemoh on Metronoyz Records. 

With a phenomenal number of big hits to her name in the Soulful House world, Hannah Khemoh raises the bar even higher with this latest release with DJ & Producer Ace Shyllon, beautifully titled
“The Way You Love Me”.

Ace Shyllon has been making waves with his original tracks and remixes which are in high demand. A producer renowned for his versatile productions and sought after remixes, always bringing a fresh and exciting element to his releases. His ability to surprise his listeners with every track has earned him a global following

Hannah’s career spans over nearly two decades and she has performed around the world doing what she loves and lives for. Bursting on to the scene in 2008 – she became a professional backing vocalist and has had the honour of working with musical icons like Grace Jones, Plan B & Florence & The Machine. Hannah is now a solo artist who has worked with some of the best producers on the planet including Louie Vega, Rhemi, Sean McCabe & Pat Bedeau.

This brand new collaboration has been on the cards for a while after Hannah performed live with Ace which showed their amazing synergy together. This eagerly awaited release will truly get many dance floors oozing with joy. The track is pumping from the get go and has got such an addictive funky bass line and coupled with Hannah’s amazing lyrics to take you on trip of life time. 

House music lovers around the world theyproudly present to you “The Way You Love Me”

CHECK OUT THE METRONOYZ LABEL HERE  

 Amsterdam Dance Event incoming

The countdown begins to one of the most anticipated and eagerly awaited Events in the Music Industry and Music Lovers calender – ADE 2024  kicks off from 16th – 20th October.

The Festival program is now complete with the addition of Anz, Bambounou, Ben Sims, DJ Nobu, Cera Khin, Dasha Rush, Kölsch, Luke Slater, Pete Tong, Sandrien and Sweely.

2024 sees ADE boasting a list of 3,000+ performing artists with more than 1,000 events in more than 200 venues over five days and nights.

From small intimate boutique parties in Bars, Record Stores and popup venues to glitzy and glamourous no expenses spared events. Electronic Music enthusiasts can also attend the many lectures, workshops, mini courses and stores that offer a plethora of informative gatherings to aid you in your quest should you choose. Whether you are a producer, DJ, Promoter, Artist Manager, Music brand owner or more…ADE has something to cover your passion and help you in your quest to reach your goals.

To find out all about ADE then check out the Official Website link under this image 

Ableton announces their new Standalone Instrument ‘MOVE’

A name that is synonymous with Music production, the German music software company Ableton, is releasing a standalone instrument.

Given the name ‘Move’ the neat looking Kit comes with 32 pressure-sensitive pads with velocity and polyphonic aftertouch, used to trigger a library of over 1,500 sounds.

Also integrated into the software is a 16-step sequencer and a speaker. The instrument links easily with Live, Ableton’s market-leading DAW.

‘Move’ uses nine encoders to control a filter, an envelope, various sound modulation parameters and a bank of eight FX.

It can sample audio via a line-in port or using an inbuilt mic. The workflow is arranged over four tracks that can be set up as pads, drums, a sampler or a range of other synth engines. A rechargeable battery gives the device four hours of power.

Abletons aim is to create a portable instrument that can be used to sketch out ideas, before importing them into Live for more in-depth arrangements.

Its WiFi-enablement allows you to transfer sets into your DAW without any cabling and can also act as a controller for Live, like a cut-down version of Ableton’s Push devices.

Many of Move’s sounds will be familiar to Live users, though others are bespoke to the Move instrument, created through collaborations with artists including BNYX, DECAP, L.Dre and SoundOracle. The look and feel of the machine, the colours and the layout of the drum racks all closely match Live, and the workflow is designed to allow users to rapidly get creative.

Move is priced at $449, €449, £399. 

Pioneer Celebrates 30 Years of the  much loved ( and sometimes hated) CDJ

Pioneer DJ has announced a new limited-edition Mag to celebrate the 30th birthday of their CDJ.

The Collectable ‘ Zine’ called Deckades ( See what they did there), has a run of 1,000 print copies that are being shared on a first come, first serve basis, and charts the history  of the famous CDJ, from its origins as the CDJ-500 through USB, MP3s, touchscreen and so on.

It also includes interviews with Fatboy Slim, Fabio to name but a few and outlines the specs and details of all CDJ models ( 23 in total) from the original in 1994 to the current  model, the CDJ-3000 which is sometimes loved and sometimes loathed by DJs.

DJs and fans who want to get their hands on the print version of deckades will need to be quick with them being distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. 

You can order a digital copy here ORDER DIGITAL COPY

Dennis Ferrers New Label Thrift Shoppe is anything BUT Thrifty

Dennis Ferrer announces the launch of brand-new imprint Thrift shoppe working alongside Defected to bring the NYC Label to a World Wide Audience. 

Ferrers intention is to interupt and disrupt the contemporary musical landscape by  making sure he authentics craftsmanship of “luxury, one-of-a-kind sonic treasures.”  Thriftshoppe sets out to re-introduce the world to the magic of slow burners and future classics instead of those throw away, no emotion tracks that take little time to make and you cant tell one from the other. In contrast, those tracks that are Over Produced and are made for instant gratification are also on Dennis’ Radar for disruption. 

The First release on the New label will be from NASSER BAKER entitled Fit Check.

Following Nasser’s superb 2024 releases on Defected and RAWthentic, ‘Fit Check’ showcases the producer’s unique taste from the jump, featuring original vocals to create a vibey, club-ready outing, with expertly curated production choices perfectly exemplifying Thriftshoppe’s core values. 

DJ Randall ” Too Hot To Handle” dies at age 54 ! 

Known as your Favourite DJs DJ on the Drum n Bass and Jungle Music Scene, DJ Randall dies at the age of 54.

Randall McNeil was an innovator, whose dedication to DJing and supporting new music never wavered across his career, he was known for building bridges across generations.

From the end of the ’80s, when he discovered Acid House at Londons Notting Hill Carnival, Randalls ’s dedication to the craft of DJing, and British underground music culture, has been relentless and faultless.

Christened  “Too Hot To Handlle ”  a serious and worthy Tag name within the Music scene amongst other artiists and Lovers of his Music was given to him as recognition of his skill to be able to totally tear up a Dancefloor.

Many an Underground and rare Track has been purchased and discovered from Randalls Sets. An innovator and pioneer.

Randalls legacy will live on alongside his memory and the memories of everyone who knew him and raved to him.

1970 – 2024

HOUSE ICON KATHY BROWN LAUNCHES FUNDRAISING COMPILATION TO SUPPORT CANCER TREATMENT

Iconic house vocalist Kathy Brown has launched a compilation album to raise money for her treatment of stage 4 cancer.

The Album entitled ‘Legacy’ is set for release on July 19 via Glitterbox and will feature a selection of her greatest hits as well as several new remixes and edits, including one from renowned remixer and house music legends such as DJ Spen, Michael Gray as well as Sophie LLoyd and Moplen. 

The label is set to host a launch party on July 18 to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support, which will take place at Defected London headquarters.

In January this year, Brown was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer, which subsequently spread to her brain. The diagnosis required an urgent operation and ongoing treatment, with her daughter Chanta Joyner setting up a GoFundMe to help support her and the family.

Pre Order Kathys Album here Kathy Brown Legacy Album