Fundraiser launched for Ragga Twins’ Deman Rockers following spinal injury

A fundraiser has been launched for the Ragga Twins’ Deman Rockers – real name David Destouche – after he sustained a spinal injury from a fall.

According to the fundraiser, Deman recently fell outside his home and was rushed to hospital, where medical professionals discovered a "longstanding condition” affecting his spine.

“An operation to repair damage was swiftly carried out by our brilliant NHS, but Deman has been left bedbound and unable to perform shows,” the fundraiser reads. “The long-term prognosis is uncertain.”

The fundraiser, which has so far collected more than £5,000 towards Deman’s medical bills and living expenses, is set up by Last Night A DJ Saved My Life Foundation, a charity organisation launching initiatives within the dance music community.

“While the Ragga Twins have remained busy for decades, their focus has always been on delivering in the dance rather than putting away funds for a rainy day,” the description reads.

It continues: “We are hoping that those who have enjoyed their work since the 1980s will be keen to put something back and help out with donations.”

A fundraising event is also set to go ahead on Saturday, December 21, at London’s Brixton Jamm to raise further funds towards Deman’s living expenses while he is unable to work.

The “marathon” event will take place over the course of 14 hours, featuring performances from the likes of General Levy, Fabio & Grooverider, and his Ragga Twins partner, Flinty Bandman.

Ragga Twins have been credited with pioneering the early movements in jungle and ragga through the late ‘80s, initially as part of London’s Unity soundsystem, later hitting heights with acclaimed singles including ‘Spliffhead’ and ‘Hooligan 69’.

Help Deman’s fundraiser meet its £10,000 goal by donating here, and find tickets to the fundraiser event here.

Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Assistant Editor, follow her on Twitter