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A Drum and Bass Legend’s Untimely Demise
Marcus Intalex, a name synonymous with the pulsating beats of drum and bass, left an indelible mark on the music scene. His untimely passing in 2017 sent shockwaves through the industry, leaving fans and fellow artists mourning the loss of a true pioneer.
The Man Behind the Music
Born Marcus Julian Kaye on July 14, 1971, in Burnley, Lancashire, England, he would go on to shape the very fabric of drum and bass. His journey began as a house DJ in 1991, but it was his early adoption of the UK drum and bass sound that catapulted him into the limelight. Alongside fellow DJ Mark XTC, he co-hosted the iconic radio show Da Intalex on Kiss 102 FM in Manchester from 1993 to 2000. This show not only showcased his mixing prowess but also laid the foundation for the “Intelligent Drum and Bass” movement.
A Trailblazer and Innovator
Kaye’s influence extended far beyond the airwaves. He was a driving force behind the development of the drum and bass scene, earning him the title of a “pioneer.” His global DJ tours and involvement with the Hospital Records music label solidified his status as a trailblazer. But it was his role as the founder of Soul:R, Revolve:r, and Birdie recording labels that truly set him apart. These labels became platforms for emerging talent, shaping the genre’s future1.
The Trevino Transformation
In a surprising twist, Kaye returned to his roots, embracing house and techno music under the pseudonym Trevino. Inspired by his favorite golfer, Lee Trevino, he spun beats that resonated with a different rhythm. The launch of his personal love affair with golf led to the birth of the Birdie label, where house and techno found a new home.
The Enigma of His Passing
On May 28, 2017, tragedy struck. Marcus Intalex, at the age of 45, breathed his last in Manchester, England. The cause of his death remains shrouded in mystery. Speculation abounds, but no definitive answers have emerged. His legacy lives on through the Marcus Intalex Music Foundation, established to nurture the next generation of talent. Through educational workshops and events, this foundation ensures that his passion for music continues to inspire and shape young minds.
A Melodic Farewell
As the beats of drum and bass echo through time, we remember Marcus Intalex—a maestro who danced on the edge of sound. His legacy transcends genres, and his spirit lives on in every bassline, every rhythm. Farewell, Marcus, and thank you for the music that will forever reverberate in our souls.
