The passing of Frankie Knuckles, a founding father of house music, was a tragic blow to the dance music community. DJs and fans alike took to their social networks to share their sadness or express their gratitude for the legendary producer, many of whom weren’t even alive when an entirely new genre of music was being molded.
To pay his respects, Dimitri From Paris naturally took to the decks. A legend in his own right, the French producer was also highly influenced by the same 1970s funk and disco sounds that predated 80’s house. Not much younger than Knuckles was, he has a great appreciation for the producer and seems as fitting an authority as any to release a tribute mix in honor of the late DJ.
Dimitri from Paris – My Tribute To Frankie Knuckles | Download
The explanation behind the mix that Dimitri gives on his SoundCloud page is beautifully written, so we’ll leave it at that:
I discovered Frankie Knuckles through his music, one that was, gentle, lush with a subdued, understated power that rocked many a dancefloor. I had the privilege to hear him once in the heyday of his legendary residency at Sound Factory Bar in New York. I was submerged, sonically and emotionally by the beauty of the music I heard that night. I remember very clearly saying to myself that this would be impossible to ever equal. That was 20 years ago, and I never got to hear this magic combination again. I got to meet Frankie a few times, and he was always like his music, gentle, humble, yet naturally imposing.
I’ve put together here some of my favorite music from him. So that his legacy can keep on inspiring other people.
Rest in peace, Frankie, may your music keep on moving people eternally.
