Remembering MC Conrad: the drum and bass legend

The music world is in mourning following the recent death of a legend, MC Conrad, whose real name was Conrad Thompson. The cause of death remains unconfirmed.

MC Conrad was a pioneering force in the genre of drum and bass. His partnership with producer LTJ Bukem was highly acclaimed. Together, they broadened the scope of jungle and drum and bass during the 1990s, pushing the boundaries of the genre.

His agency, Clinic Talent, confirmed his death. They paid tribute to him, saying, “One of the most recognisable and best-loved voices in D&B, he leaves behind him an unmatched legacy”. His dexterity on the mic, singing ability, and affinity with the jazzier end of the genre’s spectrum were celebrated.

Conrad started his career as a hip-hop MC. He later became a raver. His singing alongside high-tempo rapping made him the ideal foil for LTJ Bukem. Together, they explored how jazz fusion could interface with bass music.

Thompson became a key voice for Bukem’s label Good Looking Records. He performed at their club residency Speed at London’s Mars Bar. He and Bukem released a landmark album in 1998, Progression Sessions 1. This led to them being regarded as one of the quintessential DJ-MC combos in British dance music.

Thompson also developed a producer alias, Con*Natural. He championed digital distribution and became an early advocate of DJ podcasting in 2013. His later hits in the drum’n’bass scene came with producers such as Makoto and Total Science.

The drum’n’bass scene has paid tribute to MC Conrad. DJ-producer Peshay called Thompson “a truly unique MC in dnb from day one!! Had his own sound and style and was loved and respected worldwide”. His loss is deeply felt, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations. The influence he had on the genre and the music industry as a whole will not be forgotten. His music and his passion will live on in the hearts of his fans and fellow musicians. Rest in peace, MC Conrad. Your voice will be missed, but your music will live on.