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One of the most iconic pioneers in the world of Chicago’s Footwork scene, DJ Rashad, has passed away. Rashad had been of a champion of Juke music, and as an original founder of Teklife, one of only a few artists that managed to put the underground scene on the map. His latest release Double Cup, through Hyperdub records, out last October was heralded by Pitchfork as “unquestionably the strongest footwork-related LP since the genre was introduced to a wider audience.” Coupled with the recent loss of Frankie Knuckles, these are tough times for the windy city.

The 20 year veteran of the scene who started dancing at 12, and releasing his own material only a few years later, has left a significant hole in the sub genre. Rashad had just finished up a new album called We on 1, through Southern Belle, due out on vinyl today and digitally May 13. Check out some of Rashad’s legacy below, here’s Feelin’ – a moody, jazzy bumper of a track layered with a plethora of stuttering audio samples that explode with emotion, it seems a fitting choice for such an untimely passing. Below that; a recent set from him and fellow members of the Teklife crew for Boiler Room.

You may also want to check out:
Making Tracks :: Documentary Explores Chicago’s Footwork Scene
Frankie Knuckles :: Godfather of House Music :: R.I.P.