Ralf GUM

Last Night a DJ Saved My Life

Ralf GUM’s career reaches way back to the early 90’s when he started out as a DJ before going on to establish himself as an institution within the industry with his own productions and then with GOGO Music, his label. GUM is one of those rare talents that just has a feel for the right vibe. An ability that has led his to several residencies around the world, from Germany to big tours in South Africa - a country that has truly embraced his style and one he has proved an inspiration for many.

He was the first German DJ to be booked in the neighbouring countries Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland. In 2012 Ralf decided to emigrate from his homeland of Germany to the world's current hot-bed for Soulful Music, South Africa, but continued to travel to some of the best events around the world, including festivals like the Southport Weekender (Southport, UK), Nature One (Germany) and Dancevalley (Amsterdam, Netherlands).

Ralf GUM’s productions have helped him build and enviable reputation as a forward thinking tastemaker, producing music since 1993 he’s worked with notable artists such as Caron Wheeler, Hugh Masekela, Omar, Beady Belle, Robert Owens, Inaya Day, Kenny Bobien, Michael Procter, Wunmi, Concha Buika or Monique Bingham. Remixing for labels including Defected, Vega Records, Papa, Peppermint Jam, Tommy Boy and more.

In 2008 Ralf GUM released his debut album titled ‘Uniting Music’, a continuous piece of music, seamless and blended into a luscious texture of inspired grooves. The album received critical acclaim with the UK’s M8 Magazine calling it “simply one of the best albums of the year”

In 2001 Ralf GUM began his own label GOGO Music and it has gone on to be regarded as Germany’s, if not one of world’s most reputable soulful house music labels. With his label Ralf has been pivotal for the international breakthrough of artists like Raw Artistic Soul, Black Coffee and the discovery of many other outstanding talents. In 2003 Ralf initiated the GOGO Music radio-show, at first as a monthly show transmitted on one internet-radio station. It rapidly became one of the most popular broadcasts within the House Music community and now airs weekly by more than 40 FM- and internet-stations around the globe, with Ralf GUM, MAQman and Themba as residents.

Ralf’s sound reflects his love for jazzy harmonies coupled with underground beats. But the distinctive groove isn’t the only reason for Ralf’s success – his soulful sensibility shines through in all he does and helps him creating an irresistible groove.