On September 1, 2020, the music world lost a true icon with the passing of DJ Erick Morillo at the age of 49. Morillo’s impact on the electronic dance music (EDM) scene was immeasurable, and his music will continue to live on for generations to come.

Morillo was born in Colombia in 1971, but his family moved to New Jersey when he was just nine years old. He discovered a love for DJing in his teens and quickly developed a reputation for his unique style. In the early 1990s, Morillo and his friend Louie Vega formed the duo “Masters at Work” and produced tracks that became instant hits. Morillo also established himself as a solo artist, releasing tracks like “I Like to Move It” and “Reach.”

Throughout his career, Morillo won numerous accolades, including a Grammy nomination and five DJ Awards. His popularity was particularly strong in Ibiza, where he regularly played at parties and festivals.

However, Morillo’s life was not without its challenges. He battled drug addiction and mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. In 2013 and again in 2020, he was arrested on charges of sexual assault, which he denied.

Despite these difficulties, Morillo remained a beloved figure in the dance music world. His passion, energy, and artistry set him apart, and his fans and fellow DJs cherished the memories they shared with him.

Following his death, tributes to Morillo poured in from around the world. Many of his fellow DJs took to social media to share their memories and express their condolences. “Erick was always joyful, always energetic, and loved the music he played,” tweeted Tiësto. “A sad moment for dance music.”

David Guetta also shared his condolences, writing, “We have lost an incredibly talented artist and I will always remember the amazing moments I had with him.”

For fans of EDM, Erick Morillo will always be remembered as a true innovator and icon. His contributions to the genre, along with his infectious energy and talent, earned him a place in the hearts of fans and fellow musicians alike.