Beloved Italo DJ and producer Franco Scopinich has died aged 76
Scopinich was the founder of Radio Base San Marco, one of the first broadcasters in Mestre
Legendary DJ, producer, and founder of one of Mestre’s first broadcast stations Radio Base San Marco, Franco Scopinich, has passed away aged 76.
Italian newspaper Il Gazzettino announced Scopinich’s death on Sunday, April 2, adding that he passed away at home in the Mestre area. His cause of death has not yet been revealed.
Best known for his contribution to the Italo scene, Scopinich has worked in the music industry for almost five decades, originally founding Radio Base San Marco in 1977 with Radio Venezia and Radio Mestre Centrale.
The Venice-born DJ and producer would also found Il Disco D'oro, a record store selling rare vinyl in Viale San Marco, which still stands today.
“The shop was equipped with stereo systems, turntables, the material necessary for a DJ to broadcast,” says journalist Pierluigi Rizziato. “Franco was outgoing, human, with a unique sympathy.”
“Thanks to his initiative, his mental vivacity, his free and innovative spirit, was among the most listened to radios of that period,” Rizziato adds. “It continued to broadcast even after the boom of private radio stations.”
Scopinich was also a member of music groups including Camaro's Gang, Atmosphere, and Sun-La-Shan, a duo he established alongside his partner, Laura Venise, who passed away in 2018.
Together, the pair put out some of the most iconic Italo house tracks of all time, including 1982’s ‘Catch’ on Superradio Records, and 1983’s ‘Rose From Tokyo’.
Scopinich’s love for the Mestre area extended beyond his music, creating a Facebook group named ‘Mestre Evolution’ where he posted historical photos of the city beloved by collectors.
“His death represents a great loss, not only for those who knew him but also for Viale San Marco, a point of reference for decades,” says Rizziato.
[Via Il Gazzettino]
Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Editorial Assistant, follow her on Twitter