Larry Heard

Last Night a DJ Saved My Life

Larry Heard’s Dance 2000 release on Distance back in 1997 was one of my earliest recollections of deeper house and whilst the label was one of my go-to labels, at that point I knew very little of the history of house music, let alone the key names that helped shape it. Of which Larry Heard is cited as being the originator of deep house from Chicago.

His influence today remains strong throughout house music under either Larry Heard or his alias Mr Fingers. Other monikers include; 2nd Avenew, Ace "Smokin" Amy, Blakk Society, Disco-D, Gherkin Jerks, Loosefingers, Mr. Fingers, The Housefactors, Trio Zero...

His smooth production style with soulful vocals and long instrumental passages that de-emphasized percussion spearheaded the subgenre known as deep house. One of his first releases was a collaboration with singer Robert Owens, released under the group name "Fingers Inc." The song "Mystery of Love" instantly became a classic hit.

Although he has created much music and his career is ongoing, his mid-1980s tracks are considered classics in the house and nu-soul genres.

Often seen on the Red Bull Music Academy talks I’ve always found him one of the most interesting figures from the early years and one that has remained relevant to this day.