DJ Randall, a highly respected figure in the British Jungle and Drum and Bass scene, has sadly died. The news was shared today, Wednesday, July 31, 2024, through social media. Reports indicate that DJ Randall, whose real name was Randall McNeil, passed away unexpectedly. Our thoughts are with his family during this tough time.
Suburban Base Records Statement:
Suburban Base Records released the following statement: “It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of DJ Randall. His loss is truly devastating. From the very beginning, Randall and the De Underground crew were essential to the evolution of our scene. His contributions are immeasurable.”
About Randall McNeil:
Born on April 2, 1970, Randall McNeil was a pioneering DJ who transitioned from acid house to jungle music, significantly contributing to its rise in popularity. His career started in the late 1980s, inspired by Acid House at the 1987 Notting Hill Carnival.
Randall quickly honed his mixing skills, leading to regular mix tapes and performances on pirate radio stations such as Rave FM, Centreforce, and Rinse FM around 1989-90. He became a leading figure in the breakbeat hardcore scene. Along with DJs Cool Hand Flex and Mike De Underground, he co-founded the DeUnderground record label and a record shop in Forest Gate, East London.
Randall’s breakthrough moment came at the “Living Dream” rave in Leyton, East London, where he delivered an impressive 2.5-hour set after stepping in for DJ Colin Faver. Beyond DJing, Randall made significant contributions as a producer, notably collaborating with Andy C from Ram Records in 1994 to produce the jungle track “Sound Control.”
Further details about DJ Randall’s obituary and funeral arrangements will be shared at a later date.