MC Conrad, born Conrad Thomson and widely considered as a pioneer of drum’n’bass during the 90s and beyond, passed away at age 52.

The news was confirmed today by his agency Clinic Talent, who paid tribute to the artist by saying: “One of the most recognisable and best-loved voices in D&B, he leaves behind him an unmatched legacy.”

No cause of death has been given for the artist, who was known for his electronic sounds and dynamic stage presence, as well as his jazz influences. He first became entrenched in the rave scene in the early 90s, taking him from Northampton to London where he collaborated with producers such as LTJ Bukem.

And we've lost MC Conrad now - way too soon. His soulful lyrical flow in tandem with LTJ Bukem, letting the music breathe, was the antithesis to a lot of MCs at the time. Latterly getting into production & running his own label, he'll be sorely missed. RIPhttps://t.co/zMwYgK61DP

— Carl Loben (@CarlLoben) April 30, 2024

Fellow artists and friends have shared their tributes on social media, Karis O’Hara writing: “Conrad, my friend... we chatted weeks ago about collaborating on a track, and then he went quiet only to hear the devastating news today… he was kind to me, especially during Covid. Thank you for being a light, and the words & music. rip MC Conrad, you’ll be missed.”

DJ Steppa called him “a truly gifted legend of the scene, one of the nice guys, and gone far too soon.”