DJ KID

01/08/2024

Randall

Like many of us in the Jungle and Drum and Bass scene and the wider dance music community, I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Randall a true master of the 1s and 2s, at the age of 54. I did attempt to make this short, but I could not discuss Randall's profound impact on our lives throughout the decades in so few words. So I hope you can take the time to read what I’ve written about him.

For those who may not be familiar, Randall's journey as a DJ began with his love for Hip-Hop in the early 80s, a passion that later led him to the discovery of Acid House, a pivotal moment that set him on a new musical path. Acid House marked the birth of the UK rave scene, a transformative period that reshaped the music landscape in the early 90s. This evolution, coupled with the introduction of drum breaks to the mix, was a musical revelation that heralded a new era in UK dance music culture, a revolution Randall was at the forefront of.

Breakbeats, sourced from Jazz, Funk, Soul, Rock and Hip-Hop records, became ever more syncopated in an ever-evolving sound coupled with the advent of computers such as the Atari ST, Cubase's music production program having a studio setup became increasingly affordable and gave rise to hundreds of bedroom producers. With new labels springing up what seemed like every day. Labels such as Strictly Underground, Dzone, Kickin, Chill, Suburban Base, Moving Shadow, D-Underground and Reinforced Records, to name but a few, were right at the forefront of what was a fast-becoming dance music revolution.

Along with all the labels came a whole army of DJs, many of whom, like me, had crafted the art of mixing in the bedroom on a set of Technics turntables over thousands of hours before venturing to play in nightclubs and fields as rave culture exploded. Many of these DJs, including Randall would go on to play a pivotal role not only in helping break new music but also in shaping a sound and a scene. Their influence was profound, and their dedication was instrumental in developing Jungle music.

I first met Randall while playing at Quest in Wolverhampton in 1993 when he was there with Goldie, somebody I had watched many years early in the documentary about graffiti called Bombin, so I was a bit star-struck. As Randall and Goldie were about to leave, I raced over with my camera and asked if I could get a photo with them, to which Randall said no. I would, of course, go on to play alongside Randall on many occasions down south and back home in Scotland, at Manga, and just a few years back, I had him play for me at Jungle Magik when I reminded him that he knocked me back that night at Quest which we laughed about it over a beer.

Having been a DJ since 1989, I have always taken the art of mixing one tune into another very seriously; nothing beats that feeling when you know those two tunes just fit together whilst watching a packed dancefloor vibe with it. I was fortunate to have worked in nightclubs from the age of 16 alongside some very skilful DJs of the day, who I studied meticulously for tune selection and how they utilised the mixer as they would blend one tune into another in their own unique way and how to read a dancefloor. Those early interactions became the hallmark of my mixing style, which undoubtedly was the case for those who studied Randall over the years. ANDY C, to name just one of many, was inspired by Randall’s mixing prowess.

I’ve had the pleasure of working and socialising with many of the Jungle and Drum & Bass scene’s DJs, many of whom have become great friends over the years, including Randall, with whom I shared countless laughs. What will we miss most about this larger-than-life character? His unique style as a DJ, his continued enthusiasm and passion for Jungle and Drum & Bass culture, and his infectious smile and jokes- are the things I will miss the most. Undoubtedly, his absence leaves a void in our community that will be deeply felt.

As we come together to mourn the loss of a legend, I want to extend my deepest condolences to Randalll's friends and family. This is a hugely sad time for all of us, and we share in your grief.

Rest Easy, Big Man

DJ KID

Randall McNeil

24/07/2024

11/07/2024

The World Of Rave According To Quest

A very tongue-in-cheek representation of the World Of Rave according to the 90s legendary Wolverhampton night Quest.

Big up all the original Quest Crew!

21/06/2024

Buster Browns Under 18's

In the 1980s and early 90s, Buster Browns Under 18s was the place to be for the young team on Friday nights in Edinburgh. It was at Buster's where I started DJing in 1989, at 16, under the guidance of resident DJ Grant Duff (centre), who gave me my first break.

This photo was taken in the DJ booth at Buster's. I'm on the left, and Cliff is on the right. If anybody knows Cliff's whereabouts, please tell him about this photo and ask him to get in. Touch. I’m still in touch with Grant.

Look out for a one-off Buster Browns Re-Union event later this year.

18/06/2024

My First E

When the rave scene kicked off at the start of the ‘90s, recreational drugs, in particular Ecstasy, were an integral part of the scene. I wasn’t even much of a drinker back then, so thinking about taking one wasn’t something I felt a desire to do, even more so when I used to DJ and saw how much it affected people, and I was just too self-conscious. I was very apprehensive about taking a pill, although I would dabble with a bit of speed, smoking hash and the odd acid tab. For the first few years, I watched people enjoy themselves to the music, which I got immense pleasure from playing.

This was to change in 1993 when Universe Big Love was announced, and I decided to run two 50-seater coaches to this massive event down in Wiltshire. It was at Universe where I took my first Ecstasy pill, even though I still needed some convincing. One of the reasons I took a leap of faith was because one of my friends said she would stay with me the entire time. After dropping my first E, the first stop was a ride on the big wheel before wandering around the different stages all night, listening to many amazing sets. I would eventually end up sitting in the chill-out tent where this photo was taken.

Whilst I’ve been a DJ for 35 years, I do not think I have had more than ten ecstasy pills, which I reckon is pretty good going, considering people could take that in one night. As I’ve got older, I have some regrets about not letting go a bit more back in those hazy rave days. I have this recurring thought of going to the Hacienda in Manchester, being out my face and listening to Hallelujah by Happy Mondays or Voodoo Ray by A Guy Called Gerald. I could imagine being lost in the smoke and lights to either of those tunes, which I’m sure many did, and being something of a surreal experience.

07/06/2024

Here's me running up the house phone bill back in the day. Once, I ran up a bill of £600 calling a chat line, which did not go down well, I hasten to add. I say it was money well spent. 😁

07/06/2024

Posing in the bedroom back in 91/92 sporting a Nervous Records t-shirt. Back when I had eyebrows and hair. 😆

26/05/2024

Buster Brown's under 18's resident DJ Grant Duff, one of my mentors, gave me my first break as a DJ, making me the youngest club DJ in Edinburgh at just 16 years old in 1989. I played at Buster Browns under-18s every Friday alongside Grant until it stopped.

On occasion, I had the opportunity to play a few tunes at the over-21s, sharing the decks with the legendary Ronnie McKeown, brother of Bay City Rollers Les McKeown, from whom I learned a great deal about reading the crowd and working a dancefloor as I did working alongside Grant.

24/05/2024

Scooby

Having been a DJ since 1989, I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside many dance music legends, including here in Scotland, which has its fair share, but for one reason or another, I have never crossed paths with some of them. One of those DJs is this man with whom I had the pleasure of meeting today for the first time.

For those who don't know, Scooby was at the forefront of the rave movement in Scotland; his book Scooby - The Glory Of The Ride takes an in-depth look at his career, including his involvement with Cafe Mambo in Ibiza and the legal battle to be declared the true mastermind behind Dario G’s worldwide smash ‘Sunchyme’. He also featured in a BBC Scotland documentary titled Scoobs And The Rave Years, taking a look at the birth of rave and electronic dance music in Scotland between 1987 and 1993,

Scooby would eventually see his mental health decline due to co***ne abuse and a crippling hash addiction which saw him sectioned 23 times, totalling 1,286 days over 16 years. Even though what is often a ruthless industry had eaten him up and spat him out, contributing to losing his sanity, it never quite stole his soul, and he survived to tell the tale.

I’ve put the link in the comments if anybody wants to buy his book.

19/05/2024

Today marks five years since I quit drinking alcohol, so after a walk along Portobello Beach and Promenade, I celebrated with coffee and cake at The Beach House.

You may or may not know that alcohol remains the no 1 drug in society and the biggest killer and cause of more than 3 million deaths, directly and indirectly, a year worldwide. Do I miss it? Absolutely not! It's by far one of the biggest regrets of my life that I ever started drinking. Knowing what I know now about how it is even worse for people with ADHD, I’m so glad I stopped.

If anybody is struggling with alcohol or looking to cut down or, like me, quit, feel free to reach out to me at any time. It's never too late to change your habits and live healthier and happier lives.

04/05/2024

Breakdance - Soundtrack

The groundbreaking film Breakin, or Breakdance as it was known in Europe, was released on May 4th, 1984. For many people, the film is a defining moment in their childhood in terms of exposure to what was soon to become a cultural revolution as Hip Hop exploded worldwide.

I saw Breakdance for the first time on a Saturday morning at the Odeon Cinema in Edinburgh at the age of 11. Little did I know how much of an impact seeing it would have on my life. Watching Chris “The Glove” Taylor on those Technics turntables and Ice T rapping in the scenes from Radiotron was mindblowing for me. And who can forget that scene with Turbo and the broomstick outside the shop? I left the cinema that day like a different person, and it was the beginning of my aspirations to become a DJ.

I bought the soundtrack on cassette from John Menzies as soon as it became available. To say I played the tape to death is an understatement. I used to place the tape deck on the window ledge, open the window and blast it into the street. I got funny looks as people walked by my house, but people had to hear this music.

The soundtrack features so many unique tracks. From “Ollie & Jerry’s “There’s No Stopping Us”, “Chaka Khan’s Ain’t Nobody”, “Kraftwerk’s Tour De France”, and the track quoted by Eminem as his first introduction to Rap music, Reckless by “Ice T & Chris “The Glove” Taylor”. I still play the soundtrack to this day; it still sounds FRESH!

30/04/2024

MC Conrad

I am incredibly saddened to hear of the passing of legendary Drum & Bass MC Conrad.

Rest In Peace Soul Brother

22/04/2024

Roger Johnson

With heavy hearts, we mourn the loss of not just MC Duke, but also the pioneering DJ Roger Johnson. Like MC Duke on the mic, Roger was himself a pioneer on the turntables, becoming the first winner at the inaugural DMC DJ Convention in 1985, a competition that would later evolve into the prestigious DMC World Mixing Championships which would inspire hundreds of thousands of DJs including myself. This historic event took place at the newly opened Hippodrome in London, marking the beginning of Roger's legendary journey in the music industry.

Roger had incredible skills on the decks, which he was able to showcase on the BBC's First Hip-Hop Show, " A Fresh Start To The Week.” Inspired by Marly Marl's Mixes on Mr Magic's New York WBLS Show, Roger emulated that vibe, doing live Hip-Hop Mixes on the show, cutting and scratching live on air but in a really musical way, creating a new track in real time—the first time anything like this had been done on BBC Radio!

Check out Rogers's winning DMC mix via the link below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0g2rUPsNBOg

21/04/2024

MC Duke

I’m sad to hear about the passing of one of the pioneers of UK Rap music, MC Duke, somebody I rated highly during the early days of my endeavours to become a Hip Hop DJ.

Alongside DJ Leader One, he released various singles, including his debut single, Jus Dis, in 1987, which featured on Simon Harris’s compilation album Hard As Hell on his label Music Of Life, on which he released two successful solo albums, 'Organised Rhyme' and ‘Return Of The Dred-I ', which further solidified his place in the UK Hip-Hop scene.

His live performance on the Husters Convention album, which is also on Music Of Life at Cafe de Paris London, on March 14th, 1989, is legendary and was the first live UK rap album I still play.

In 1990, he picked up Hip Hop Connection magazine’s award for Best British Recording Artist and even broke the Top 75 of the UK charts with ‘I’m Riffin, another big favourite of mine from the era.

Duke would eventually move to PJ & Smiley's Shut Up And Dance label, which was hugely instrumental in the early foundations of the UK Breakbeat scene, which would later morph into Jungle. There had been an album in the pipeline, but sadly, this never materialised.

In 1995, he served as an MC on the pioneering and long-running London pirate radio station Kool FM.

Keep Riffin Homeboy!

17/04/2024

BRAD WELSH

Five years ago today, my long-time friend Brad Welsh tragically lost his life on the doorstep of his home while his young family was inside. This devastating event sent shockwaves through Edinburgh and resonated deeply across Scotland and beyond. While Brad may not have been everyone's cup of tea, he was a good man at heart and didn't deserve to die so tragically and prematurely.

I’d known Brad since the early 80s when he was, let’s say, somewhat of a notorious figure in Edinburgh organising the Hibs Baby Crew (BBC), which consisted of a much younger generation of football casuals than the older notorious CCS (Capital City Service). While I wouldn't claim to have been a football hooligan, I occasionally attended games with Hibs casuals home and away and occasionally faced arrest and charges.

Like me, Brad was deeply passionate about Hibernian Football Club, the club he had supported all his life. I saw this firsthand when I was running Hibernian Retro in my endeavours to have a statue of Hibernian Football Club's Famous Five outside the stadium. My efforts were obstructed by the then-chief executive Leeann Dempster and chairman Rod Petrie, with the club issuing personal legal and public threats against me. Throughout this challenging period, Brad was there, offering advice. Alongside other high-profile supporters of the planned statue, such as actor Dougray Scott, radio and TV host Grant Stott, The Proclaimers, and Hibs legend Pat Stanton, Brad secured the backing of his friend and Trainspotting author Irvine Welsh.

Some of you might already be aware, but I'm in the process of writing my autobiography. In it, you'll find a detailed account of my efforts to erect the Famous Five statue and how the club treated not just me but the surviving family members of the Famous Five, some of whom were elderly. The treatment was nothing short of appalling. Rest assured, I will share the full story!

Brad left a lasting legacy, inspiring a generation through various community-based projects. The article on Edinburgh Live, linked below, details this further.

www.edinburghlive.co.uk/news/edinburgh-news/edinburgh-bradley-welshs-death-five-28979172

In the photo, Brad is wearing one of the many t-shirts I used to sell through Hibernian Retro. The image features Hibs captain David Gray celebrating after scoring the winning goal in the 2016 Scottish Cup final, where Hibs defeated The Rangers 3-2 to clinch the cup for the first time in 114 years.

15/04/2024

After 35 years as a DJ, you would think I could dance, but I still feel a total disconnection with my lower half, particularly my feet, when it comes to music; it's like they are on back to front when I try to move them. 😁

There was a time when I did try dancing, but that was way back in 1989 at Buster Browns under 18s in Edinburgh. I remember dancing on the little stage in the club but feeling very uncomfortable and awkward, so I didn't bother trying again. 😞

I reckon I would be a great dancer if I could get my feet to move in time with my upper half; as you can see from this short clip of me during a recent DJ set, I have no problem getting into the vibe. 🥳

Maybe I should have done more drugs! 😆

07/04/2024

Here’s a short clip from the start of my set with MC Gavzie at Rezerection The Homecoming yesterday.

A massive shout out to Stevie Watt for all the planning that went into the REUNION room at Rezerection, which, for me, was head and shoulders above the main arena. The room was rocking from the moment I arrived, not just out in the crowd but also backstage, which only added to a truly memorable night.

Although I have never experienced a REUNION in Rosyth firsthand, it’s evident that Stevie has devoted over the years to an event reminiscent of what we experienced in the 90s, which is why REUNION is such a successful brand.

On a personal level, I enjoyed watching all the DJs dig deep, not just playing all the classics, which showed their in-depth knowledge of the history of the music. There were also some excellent mixing skills on the show.

It was nice to meet some new faces and great seeing some old faces I had not seen for a long time. A big shout out to MCs Eazi and Eject. A special mention to Stevie’s partner-in-crime, Eileen, for running the backstage area professionally.

It’s very rare for me to play at old-skool events, so having the opportunity to do so is something I enjoy. I look forward to the next time, whenever that may be.

Thanks to Brooke McGrotty for the video.

04/04/2024

Catch longtime friend MC Gavzie with me this Saturday at Rezerection The Homecoming . We’ll be mashing things up in the Reunion area from 3pm to 3.45 p.m.

As a DJ, I've worked with some incredible MCs from down south over the last 35 years. In Scotland MC Gavzie's talent was exceptional, especially during the 90s rave scene, where he was in a league of his own, setting the bar high for all others to follow.

Gavzie became the resident MC at my Pandemonium events at Crystals Arena Glenrothes in 1991/92, which gave him the platform to perform across Scotland. He was featured on some of the most significant rave events of the time, including Awesome 101, Earthquaker, and many appearances at Rezerection, to name but a few.

More than just a professional relationship, we have a deep bond that extends beyond the stage, filled with laughter and shared experiences, some of which you can delve into in my forthcoming autobiography. We might even create some new memories this weekend.

For a taste of what MC Gavzie and Pandemonium was like back in the day, check out the following link to stream and download all the recordings between 1991-1992.

https://hearthis.at/pandemonium/

12/03/2024

Mallorca Lee's XL Podcast

Ahead of my set at 1994 the Biscuit Factory in Edinburgh last year, I had the pleasure of doing my first-ever podcast with Ultra Sonic and Scottish rave legend Mallorca Lee, who, as you know, sadly passed away from terminal cancer last month which I found very upsetting and still can't believe he's no longer with us.

The conversation, which lasted over two hours, will give you some insight into my introduction to music in childhood, my desire to be a drummer, my discovery of Hip-Hop culture, my first DJ setup, the care system, my first break as a DJ, and my journey through the rave era into the world of Jungle and Drum and Bass.

Throughout my 35-year career, I’ve had various interviews on radio stations, in magazines and newspapers; this is the most in-depth insight into my journey as a DJ and promoter. So, if you're looking for something to help you fall asleep at night, give it a listen!

I’m toying with the idea of doing my own podcasts in the coming months. So, if you haven’t already subscribed to my YouTube channel, I would appreciate it if you could.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RyJ8B1DMMFw

01/03/2024

Mallorca Lee Funeral Order Of Service - February 23rd 2024 - The Hurlet Crematorium

Somebody asked if I could scan the order of service from Mallorca’s funeral, so I thought I’d share it with you all. As you can see from the photos, Mallorca had a very happy, loving family unit with wife Maria, daughter Angel and son Oceano.

I’ll be uploading the full video from the funeral later this evening.

23/02/2024

As expected, it was a very emotional day today as we said farewell to Mallorca Lee; as much as the occasion was very upsetting, the energy that came with the hundreds in attendance was incredible and precisely what Mallorca would have wanted. Listening to all the heartfelt speeches and music played, in particular, Obsession performed live on the piano, and Hans Zimmer - Time, which is a big favourite of mine, added to what was a true celebration of life, the life of a great human being who will be sorely missed. I’ve put links for both of those tracks at the bottom.

Watching the screens showing Mallorca’s fantastic career, I reflected on my life, particularly how much time I might have left and how much I’ve wasted over the years through one reason or another, especially with so many unfulfilled ambitions. I left the crematorium today with a renewed sense of inspiration and determination to continue working on my dreams, living my life to the fullest, just like Mallorca did, with energy, passion, determination, purpose and, most importantly, love.

Mallorca's final words on social media were highlighted throughout the service, and rightly so, and it is those words that I leave you with on this very sad night.

Love, that’s all we ever really have, our one true currency, so tell the ones around you what they mean to you, every day. LOVE LOVE LOVE

Mallorca Lee (Mall) - 1972 - 2024

Ultra-Sonic - Obsession - (Piano Version)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0NfhvqSYtVc

Has Zimmer - Time - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ynC4hNYRUUI

23/02/2024

Two old skool pals paying our respects to Mallorca Lee.

A very sad day. 🥲

22/02/2024

Tomorrow, we say farewell to Mallorca Lee, whose untimely passing at the age of just 51 just four weeks after terminal cancer diagnosis sent shock around the globe. Mallorca still had so much more to offer this world, first and foremost as a husband to Maria, as a dad to his children Angel and Oceano and through his talent as a musician and DJ.

Last year, when I was going through a rough patch, Mallorca was a great source of encouragement. I’ll forever be grateful for him reaching out, giving me some much-needed support and making me laugh about getting a loveseat in my new home. This showed the class Mallorca was as a human being.

Mallorca’s funeral service is at 2 pm in the Hurlet Crematorium. I’ve found it hard to come to terms with Mall’s death, so I fully expect tomorrow to be a highly upsetting and emotional occasion.

The service is being streamed for those unable to attend; please use the following link and code.

https://www.wesleymedia.co.uk/webcast-view

Webcast Login PIN

856-0987

11/02/2024

Mallorca Lee - What Old Skool Means To All Of Us

I’m sure you are all aware by now of the untimely death of Scottish dance music legend Mallorca Lee, who succumbed to terminal cancer just four weeks after diagnosis. We all hoped for a miracle, but sadly, there wasn’t. Mallorca Lee's departure from this world has created a profound void in many people's lives, including mine.

For those unlucky not to have had the opportunity to meet or work with Mallorca Lee, let me tell you, his essence overflowed with boundless energy and an unwavering passion for music, inspiring not just here in his native homeland but thousands globally. Some of that essence was captured in a video he shared last year, when he encouraged people to attend his 1994 events, emphasising the transformative power of music and dance physically and psychologically, irrespective of age.

Life, as we all know, can be unforgiving, as exemplified by Mallorca Lee's short-lived journey. Yet, one certainty remains: his energy, vitality, music, and legacy will live on for many years. In moments of despondency, revisiting Mallorca’s words through this video will help reshape one's perspective on life. Even if revisiting your youth at an old skool rave isn’t your thing, always remember the clock is ticking for all of us so keep following your dreams and passions.

Leaving you with Mallorca Lee's final words on social media.

Love, that’s all we ever really have, our one true currency, so tell the ones around you what they mean to you, every day. LOVE LOVE LOVE

Mallorca Lee (Mall) - 1972 - 2024

05/02/2024

It is with tremendous sadness that I announce the sad passing on Sunday afternoon of legendary Scottish DJ, producer and long-time friend Mallorca Lee, who was diagnosed with terminal cancer just 4 weeks ago. He was 51.

During this incredibly upsetting time, my deepest sympathy goes out to Maria Mallorca's wife his children Angel and Oceano and his extended family and friends.

You will be deeply missed, brother, but your energy and legacy will live on.

01/02/2024