R.I.P. Roc Raida

Although it had been circulating that DJ Roc Raida was in the hospital, news of his death yesterday was a complete shock to many. A highly influential DJ, turntablist and producer, Roc Raida inspired many to get behind the decks while never clamouring for the spotlight. As a member of the X-Ecutioners, he was the one most aspiring DJs looked towards (courtesy of his DMC Champion status) but he never seemed to want to make himself seem more important than the others in his crew.

Years ago, I did interview Total Eclipse and Mista Sinista from the X-Ecutioners crew, but I never met Roc Raida until a couple of years ago at the Harbourfront Centre in Toronto when he unexpectedly backed up Lord Finesse at a show. The people who hasd come to the show had no idea Roc Raida was going to be behind the decks and it was a bonus to see him and Lord Finesse go back and forth in an obviously well-oiled but humourous DJ battle. No prizes for who won, (but Lord Finesse's DJ skills are slept on btw).

After the show I spoke to Raida for maybe a minute, but what struck me immediately was that a guy who had accomplished so much in a very competitive and battle-oriented field was very humble, gracious and self-effacing. Respect due.

For an indepth analysis of Roc Raida productions and analysis check Unkut's A Salute to Roc Raida.