Celebrated English-born house producer and DJ Martin Dawson died on Monday following extended treatment for a brain aneurysm.
Dawson was found lying unconscious on the floor of his Berlin studio at the start of the month and immediately hospitalized for treatment. Doctors fought to stabilise him over the coming days but on Monday, November 12, Dawson sadly lost his fight.
Dawson had been steadily raising his profile in recent years. DJ bookings all over the world – Europe through to South America via Asia and Russia – were accompanied by high-profile house releases for Cocoon, Get Physical and Crosstown Rebel, as well as collaborations with Glimpse, Catz ‘N Dogz and close friend Giles ‘secretsundaze’ Smith (as Two Armadillos). Dawson released two albums, 2009’s Chapters and last year’s well received Moodmusic follow-up Sunday Smoking.
A host of industry friends have been leaving tributes on social media. Posting his remix of Dawson and Glimpse’s No One Belongs Here More Than You, Ewan Pearson commented: “For Martin, my friend and studio partner, who passed away today. One of the sweetest and the most talented guys in our industry. We’re going to miss you."
Darren Emerson tweeted: “Just heard really sad news ...RIP Martin Dawson…Can't believe it...”.
Maceo Plex added: “I'm beyond sad today by the news of amazing artist Martin Dawson's death. It was an honor to remix him and he will be missed forever!”
Jay Shepheard, who co-wrote a number of tracks with Dawson, said it most poignantly, writing on his Facebook page: “What can I say Martin, I will miss you terribly… but hopefully over time this feeling can be replaced by one of happiness that I was lucky enough to have you in my life during your time on this planet.
“So sad to see you go, so happy to have known you. Goodbye friend x.”
Martin Dawson RIP. Our deepest sympathies go to his family, partner and friends.
