Jungle DJ and producer Dean Clark, AKA Clarky, has died

London-based DJ, producer, and jungle enthusiast Dean Clark – AKA Clarky – has died, fellow artist Dillinja confirmed yesterday (October 29).

In a statement shared on Facebook, Dillinja paid tribute to the late DJ, writing: “A good friend of mine for 39 years. A massive musical inspiration throughout my younger years and an excellent DJ.”

“I used to go around his place when I was 12-years-old and listen to incredible inspiring music,” he added. “You’ll never be forgotten Dean!”

Clarky was part of the pioneering jungle and drum ‘n’ bass movement in London in the early ‘90s, cutting his teeth in his work at Soho record store Blackmarket Records.

His residency on Eruption FM garnered attention from Stevie Hyper D, who joined him on several shows, while also earning regular slots on the bill of Metalheadz’s famed Blue Note parties.

Speaking on his influence, Suburban Base Records wrote in tribute: “Dean gave so much to the scene, his passion, his incredible musical knowledge, and the generosity he showed to others.”

“He was an inspiration to so many who went on to build their own careers in this business, and his impact will be felt for years to come,” they said. "On a personal level, he was a kind and considerate friend.”

With a wide-ranging knowledge of drum ‘n’ bass and jungle, Clarky also regularly explored genres like rare groove and ‘80s funk in personal mixes made for friends and collaborators.

Clarky’s discography includes collaborations with Dillinja, releases under his Batmix and Bass Invader aliases, and outings on Monta Music, Rewired, and many more.

Read some tributes below.

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