R.I.P. Godfather of House: Frankie Knuckles

R.I.P. Frankie Knuckles 1955-2014

I'm devastated with the sad news of Frankie Knuckle's passing. The first time I heard this genius live was at the Sound Factory Bar on a Friday in 1995. I couldn't believe the power of every song that would come out of those speakers. The sound was uplifting, generous, humble, spiritual and emotional and it reflected the personality of this music visionary and pioneer. The last time I was fortunate to hear him play live was four years ago at the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Community Center in the West Village where he played music for the Bear gay community. It was a very intimate, real and beautiful evening where this classy man played as if he was at one of the most grandest of venues ending the evening with his own version of First Choice's "Let No Man Put Asunder". I was happy to see that nothing has changed since that first Friday at the Sound Factory Bar in 1995 and I was nearly in tears on that dance floor. Here is one that pretty much sums up house music, a seminal sound that still sounds as fresh. The original 1987 "Your Love" with Jamie Principle on vocals. Then there is the brilliant remix of Jago's "I'm Going To Go" from 1985. The beautiful "What Do You Want From Me" featuring Adeva. The weirdly and hideously yet beautiful heart pounding "I Want A Dog" by the Pet Shop Boys. His collaborations with Robert Owen were brilliant and here is "Far Away" to prove it. What he did to Michael Jackson's already brilliant music was pure magic and here is "Rock With You" as he transformed it yet keeping the purity of the original. There are so many more dear to my heart and I hope these capture the joy and drama this legendary DJ and producer served on the dance floors. You will be missed and your contribution to music and the dance floors will live on forever!

Your Love - Frankie Knuckles

I'm Going To Go (Frankie Knuckles Remix) - Jago

What Do You Want From Me - Frankie Knuckles feat. Adeva

I Want A Dog - Pet Shop Boys

Far Away (Frankie Knuckle's Version)  - Robert Owens

Michael Jackson - Rock With You

Other previous and related Disco Monk posts about Frankie Knuckles:

You'll Never Find Another Love Like Mine
The Whistle Song
A House Classic
Take Some Time Out

Come Into My Kitchen

Already May! It's hard to believe how fast this year is moving.  Here is a very interesting tune I just recently discovered that somehow reminds me a little of Jamie Principle's House Classic "Baby Wants To Ride".  It is called "Come Into My Kitchen" by a duo of Dj's by the name of Daniel Lazarus and Joakim.   Daniel Lazarus's Crosstown Rebels imprint has become a force to reckon with in the new electronic dance underground sound.  Released in 2004, this song was featured on Lazarus first compilation CD titled Crosstown Rebels Presents Rebel Futurism with a healthy mix fusing house, techno, breakbeat and electro with a punk attitude.  I'm also featuring "Baby Wants To Ride" for good measure. Enjoy!

Come Into My Kitchen ( Chateau Flight Mix) - Daniel Lazarus and Joakim



Baby Wants To Ride - Jamie Principle