With a remarkable 30+ year career, Ray Keith is rightly celebrated as the godfather of jungle and drum & bass, earning legendary status within the scene. Known for an extensive list of pseudonyms, including Dark Soldier, Renegade, and London’s Most Wanted, he is the mastermind behind Dread Recordings and has played a vital role in shaping the genre during its transition from the acid house and hardcore explosion of the late ’80s and early ’90s.
Starting out as a rare groove, soul, and funk DJ in the mid-’80s, Ray Keith has become a staple name in the jungle and drum and bass scene, honouring the roots of Black British music. After remixing Orbital’s “Chime” in 1990, he produced the rave anthem “Terrorist,” released under his pseudonym Renegade on the iconic Moving Shadow label in 1994. This track has since become one of the most recognisable and influential jungle tunes of all time.
In 1994, Keith established Dread Recordings, a label that became synonymous with the bass-heavy yet soulful sound characteristic of his productions. His remix portfolio extends to artists like Moby and Shades of Rhythm, further cementing his status as a versatile producer.
Throughout his career, Keith has collaborated with notable figures in the drum and bass scene, including Kenny Ken and Shy FX. Keith's influence is also evident through his mentorship and support of emerging artists via Dread Recordings. As a DJ, Ray Keith is renowned for his dynamic sets that blend the soulful and heavy aspects of drum and bass. His contributions to the genre have been acknowledged through various accolades, and he remains an active and respected presence in the music community. In 2021, he released his autobiography, Dark Soldier, offering an in-depth look into his life and the history of drum and bass.
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