RIP: Frankie Knuckles Godfather Of Chicago House Music Dead At 59

According to Complex, it’s being reported by several of his close friends that the “Godfather of Chicago House”, Frankie Knuckles has passed away at age 59.

Knuckles was born in the Bronx in 1955 and became a 70’s disco dj. In 1977, “The Warehouse” nightclub opened in Chicago, and Knuckles moved to the Chi to become their premier DJ.

The music Knuckles spun at “The Warehouse” soon affectionately became known as “house music” and evolved into its own genre, as producers began using drum machines to produce less expensive versions of popular dance styles of music.

In 1983, Knuckles started his own club called “The Power Plant”.

Frankie eventually became a producer and recorded iconic versions of Jamie Principle‘s “Your Love,” “Baby Wants To Ride,” and “Cold World.” Other singles included 1991’s “The Whistle Song“:

House music is still popular today and has produced some legendary DJ’s in the process of it’s growth over the years.