Drum & Bass Pioneer Ray Keith Celebrates 30th Anniversary of Dread Recordings in London
Seminal Drum & Bass DJ, Producer and Label Boss Ray Keith, renowned for crafting some of the genre’s most relentlessly wheeled-up cuts over the last three decades, prepares to mark a momentous occasion as his lovechild, Dread Recordings, turns 30 in 2024. After kicking off celebratory proceedings with a hugely successful event at Bristol’s Central Warehouse in March, Keith and Dread now head to London’s leading Bass music venue, XOYO, for another round on Friday, 21st June. Tickets for 30 Years of Dread: London are on sale now, with prices starting from £12.50+BF. To purchase, visit https://www.xoyo.co.uk/clubnights.
At the capital’s most sought-after bass music stronghold, XOYO, Dread Recordings and its frontman Ray Keith, prepare to welcome a generous list of friends and family, with DJs, Producers and MCs that have all played their part in making the label one of Drum & Bass music’s most respected stables. DJs on the night include SS, who is going back-to-back with Ray Keith for a special ‘30 Years of Dread & Formation Exclusive Dubplate Set’, Bryan Gee, DJ Rap, Critical Impact B2B T>I, V Dubz, Fleck B2B Conrad Subs, Lo Selecta, and Abi Clark, whilst MCs Ragga Twins, Moose, Juiceman and Enamie will keep the crowd hyped to the max from start to finish.
Influenced by jazz, funk, and soul, pivotal Drum & Bass figure Ray Keith’s journey into music began in the 1980s, spinning records around Essex and Suffolk before gaining prominence in London’s acid house and rave scene. With a knack for remixing, his bootleg mix of Orbital’s “Chime” in 1990 marked the start of his rise. Specialising in bass-heavy yet soulful tunes, he crafted classics like “Terrorist” – under the moniker of Renegade – and “Chopper,” solidifying his status as a genre icon.
In 1994, Keith founded Dread Recordings; a label that coined its own distinct sound and brought through the likes of Serum, Bladerunner, Voltage, Danny Twisted Anger, Photek, Dillinja, and Lemon D. Along with this cohort of artists, Dread has continued to break down boundaries in the genre over the last 30 years and looks ripe to smash it for another 30 more.
Testament to its enduring appeal, XOYO boasts a rich history brimming of unforgettable clubbing memories and remains a beloved cornerstone of London’s nightlife scene. Renowned for its iconic Friday night residencies, XOYO has welcomed many top-tier international talents, from Fabio & Grooverider to Goldie and TQD to Andy C. Nestled in intimate settings with an underground allure, XOYO is unwavering in offering inclusive, secure, and genuine experiences, whether in London or Birmingham.
To keep up to date with all the latest events at XOYO, visit www.xoyo.co.uk.
