Jungle and drum 'n' bass legend MC Fats has died

MC Fats AKA Singing Fats (real name Wildale Spencer) one of jungle and drum ‘n’ bass’s most distinctive and central voices, has died.

News of his passing circulated began circulating today (March 10) on social media, with Andy C’s RAM Records posting a statement on Twitter. It read: “We are heartbroken to hear about the passing of MC Fats.

“He was a legend of DNB and a dear member of our family from the very beginning,” it continued.

“His loss is deeply felt, and our hearts go out to his friends and family during this difficult time.

“May his legacy live on. Peace, Love & Unity.”

Fats had been suffering from ill health for a number of years. In 2018 a community fundraiser from within the drum ‘n’ bass scene raised over £10,000 to go towards undergoing heart surgery.

He had been a key part of the jungle and drum ‘n’ bass scene since its infant days and appeared on a number of its most iconic tracks, including ‘Peace, Love & Unity’, produced by DJ Hype.

Known for his smooth, soulful vocals, with a background in reggae and rare groove, he also worked with the likes of Calibre, Die & Break, Dillinja, DJ Randall and Basher.

Fats was also a regular at the scene’s parties and raves, including a stint as a resident MC at London institution fabric.

Doc Scott paid tribute on Twitter, writing: “Rest easy MC Fats, thank you for all the laughs and good times along the way, it’s a sad day for DNB, see you on the other side my friend.”

Other tributes have been coming in for Fats, read some below.

Isaac Muk is Mixmag's Digital Intern, follow him on Twitter