MC Conrad
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MC Conrad | |
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| Birth name | Conrad Thompson |
| Born | April 1972 Northampton, England |
| Died | April 30, 2024 |
| Genres | Drum and bass, Jungle |
| Occupation(s) | MC, vocalist, music producer |
| Years active | 1980s–2024 |
| Labels | Good Looking Records, Resonance |
Conrad Thompson (April 1972 – 30 April 2024), known professionally as MC Conrad, was a British vocalist, MC, and music producer, known for his contributions to the drum and bass genre. His career, spanning over three decades, was marked by a distinctive style that blended elements of jazz, hip hop, and soul with drum and bass, establishing him as a notable figure in the development and popularization of the genre.[1][2]
Thompson's collaborations, particularly with LTJ Bukem, were instrumental in defining the atmospheric sub-genre of drum and bass, leading to international acclaim and a profound influence on electronic music.[citation needed] His legacy includes his music production work, his advocacy for artists' rights, and his lasting impact on the drum and bass community worldwide.[1]
Early life
[edit]Conrad Thompson was born in Northampton, England. Thompson was influenced by his early exposure to music from his father's record collection of ska, rocksteady, bluebeat, and reggae. He first gained attention in the local breakdancing scene during the 1980s.[3]
Career
[edit]Thompson started in the UK hip hop scene but shifted towards rave and drum and bass as these genres began to gain momentum in the early 90s. His partnership with LTJ Bukem was particularly significant; together, they crafted a sound that was both innovative and influential, establishing Good Looking Records in 1991[citation needed] and popularizing the style of atmospheric drum and bass across the globe. His stage presence and the ability to integrate jazz influences helped shape the genre.[citation needed]
Personal life
[edit]In 2010, Thompson moved to Birmingham, where he became an integral part of the community. He spoke warmly of Birmingham's spirit and diversity. Later in life, he reconnected with his father, a notable figure in the city's Caribbean community.[4]
Death and legacy
[edit]MC Conrad died on April 30, 2024, aged 52.
MC Conrad Foundation
[edit]In honor of Thompson's enduring legacy and commitment to nurturing young talent, the MC Conrad Foundation was established in June 2024. The foundation aims to support young and emerging artists within the challenging landscape of the music industry.[5]
The MC Conrad Foundation was launched by Thompson's niece Esther and his friend Lisa through a GoFundMe campaign, intended to equip young musicians with essential knowledge and skills. The foundation focuses on teaching intellectual property rights, PRS registration, and the basics of setting up as a self-employed artist, areas that Thompson was passionate about during his lifetime.
The foundation's mission is to provide a robust support system for young and marginalized artists striving to make their mark in a competitive industry. It is led by a specialized team dedicated to fulfilling Thompson's dreams and aspirations for the next generation of artists.[5]
Discography
[edit]Studio albums
[edit]- Progression Sessions Vol 4–6
- Vocalist 01
Live Albums
[edit]- Progression Sessions: Live
- Progression Sessions: UK Live 2003
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ a b Beaumont-Thomas, Ben. "MC Conrad, acclaimed drum'n'bass vocalist, dies aged 52". The Guardian. Retrieved 2024-07-01.
- ^ Birchmeier, Jason. "MC Conrad Songs, Albums, Reviews, Bio & More |..." AllMusic. Retrieved 9 November 2024.
- ^ "RIP MC Conrad: A peerless performer who became one with the music". Mixmag. Archived from the original on 2024-06-24. Retrieved 2024-07-01.
- ^ "Legendary drum and bass MC Conrad talks Birmingham, Jamaica, and the Commonwealth Games". Birmingham Mail. 14 April 2022. Retrieved 2024-07-01.
- ^ a b "MC Conrad Foundation launched to support young musicians in memory of late D&B vocalist". DJ Magazine. 21 June 2024. Retrieved 2024-07-03.
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