Cassius DJ and producer Philippe Zdar has died in Paris after an accidental fall from an apartment window. The news was confirmed by his agent in a statement sent to Pitchfork. He was 50 years old.
Zdar found success in the French house scene alongside Philippe Cerboneschi as part of Cassius, who gained widespread popularity with their unique fusion of house and disco. The late star was also known for his production work, specifically via collaborations with artists such as Kanye West and the Beastie Boys’ Mike D.
The DJ/producer’s death came just days before the release of the duo’s new album, Dreems. The group are signed to Justice/Love Supreme. Previously, they released the single Don’t Let Me Be, from the album.
People across the music industry are paying tribute to Zdar and his more than 20 years of contribution to music.
Shocked by the passing of Philippe Zdar. an incredible career and legacy. His work in the early days with Le Funk Mob and Etienne de Crecy gave French electronic music a gold standard that fulfilled its promise through Cassius, Daft Punk and beyond . RIP to the Motorbass
— Gilles Peterson (@gillespeterson) June 20, 2019
He mixed Needy Girl & Rage for the Euro release of our 1st album. Then he mixed the entire Fancy Footwork album. Then Business Casual. He played a huge role in developing our sound. We’re devastated. RIP Philippe Zdar of Cassius, Motorbass & La Funk Mob, a true musical genius. pic.twitter.com/Y7pNmzREyt
— FUNKLORDZ (@Chromeo) June 20, 2019
philippe zdar was such a huge inspiration. i remember spending weeks mastering ‘unbelievers’ — putting it up against phoenix’s ‘1901’ as the benchmark of an incredible mix, —nothing could touch it. we had to mix it over and over again just to get close.
— Rostam (@matsoR) June 20, 2019
#PhilippeZdar I loved Him So
— Arnaud Laporte (@Arnaud_Laporte) June 20, 2019
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So fucking sad to learn about Philippe Zdar last night. A true, true legend whose influence hangs over not just dance but indie, hip hop, all of it. I remember buying Feeling For You when it first came out and being blown away... My condolences to his family and friends ????????????
— Mark Ronson (@MarkRonson) June 20, 2019
So sad to hear of the passing of the legendary #philippezdar of @CASSIUSOFFICIAL. A true original and a unique talent who was involved in making our first album, as well as so many amazing records. Your energy and generosity will be sorely missed. RIP brozeur xxx ??????
— cut copy (@cutcopy) June 20, 2019
Philippe Zdar was a great inspiration, both as a producer, but particularly as a good man and friend.
— Αλεξ Καπρ?νος (@alkapranos) June 20, 2019
His taste was impeccable and is heard on everything he worked on.
He had a huge joy for life, generosity and passion.
I will miss him terribly.
RIP Philippe Zdar, a visionary and tectonic force who shaped the geography of modern dance music. I am so sorry to the many friends who mourn his sudden and terrible loss tonight.
— THE BLACK MADONNA (@blackmadonnachi) June 20, 2019
Woke up to the sad news, that Philippe Zdar has passed away. He has always been such a big inspiration to me, as part of Cassius but also as a mixing engineer. The world lost one of the most talented, humble and kind musicians last night. My thoughts go out to his loved ones. ???? pic.twitter.com/9eNqShvDKq
— PurpleDiscoMachine (@PurpleDiscoM) June 20, 2019
R.I.P. Philippe Zdar
— Andrew Gordon Macpherson (@ango84) June 20, 2019
One of my all time favorite producers and a huge inspiration. I listened to the new track Cassius released today like 5 times before I heard... so fun and catchy and then this news....Can’t believe what I’m reading.
Story by Kayla Effner
