The 'Godfather of House Music' dies

Frankie Knuckles, who was dubbed as the 'Godfather of House' died at the age of 59 due to complications relating to type II diabetes.

16:02 01 April 2014

Frankie Knuckles, the pioneering DJ and producer, has died at the age of 59. Reports claim that cause of death was complications relating to type II diabetes, which he developed during the mid-2000s.

Knuckles, who played at London’s Ministry of Sound on Saturday, was born in New York City and popularised house music in the 1980s. He was due to play at Gatecrasher in Birmingham on April 12 together with David Morales and Todd Terry.

Frederick Dunson, Knuckles’ long time business partner, has confirmed his death saying he “died unexpectedly this afternoon at home.”

Hours after the sad news broke, fellow artists have paid tribute to the Godfather of the House Music via Twitter.

Fellow house music legend Morales tweeted: "I am devastated to write that my dear friend Frankie Knuckles has passed away today. Can't write anymore than this at the moment. I'm sorry."

DJ Pete Tong wrote: "R.I.P #GodfatherOfHouse Frankie Knuckles R.I.P gentleman genius groundbreaker inspiration blessed to have worked with you. Sad news."

Another DJ to give his tribute was The Roots drummer Quest Love, who tweeted:
"Frankie Knuckles was so under-appreciated. he was the dj that dj's aspired to be. true dance pioneer."