| MC Conrad | |
| Background: | solo_singer |
| Birth Name: | Conrad Thompson |
| Birth Date: | April 1972 |
| Birth Place: | Northampton, England |
| Death Date: | April 30, 2024 |
| Genre: | Drum and bass, Jungle |
| Occupation: | MC, vocalist, music producer |
| Years Active: | 1980s–2024 |
| Label: | Good Looking Records, Resonance |
| Associated Acts: | LTJ Bukem, PFM, Makoto, Total Science |
Conrad Thompson (April 1972 – 30 April 2024), known professionally as MC Conrad, was a British vocalist, MC, and music producer, known for his contributions to the drum and bass genre. His career, spanning over three decades, was marked by a distinctive style that blended elements of jazz, hip hop, and soul with drum and bass, establishing him as a notable figure in the development and popularization of the genre.[1]
Thompson's collaborations, particularly with LTJ Bukem, were instrumental in defining the atmospheric sub-genre of drum and bass, leading to international acclaim and a profound influence on electronic music. His legacy includes his music production work, his advocacy for artists' rights, and his lasting impact on the drum and bass community worldwide.
Conrad Thompson was born in Northampton, England. Thompson was influenced by his early exposure to music from his father's record collection of ska, rocksteady, bluebeat, and reggae. He first gained attention in the local breakdancing scene during the 1980s.[2]
Thompson started in the UK hip hop scene but shifted towards rave and drum and bass as these genres began to gain momentum in the early 90s. His partnership with LTJ Bukem produced a sound that was both innovative and influential, which lead to the establishment of Good Looking Records in 1991 . This helped popularizing the style of atmospheric drum and bass across the globe. His stage presence and the ability to integrate jazz influences helped shape the genre.
In 2010, Thompson moved to Birmingham, where he became an integral part of the community. He spoke warmly of Birmingham's spirit and diversity. Later in life, he reconnected with his father, a notable figure in the city's Caribbean community.[3]
MC Conrad died on April 30, 2024, aged 52.
In honor of Thompson's enduring legacy and commitment to nurturing young talent, the MC Conrad Foundation was established in June 2024. The foundation aims to support young and emerging artists within the challenging landscape of the music industry.
The MC Conrad Foundation was launched by Thompson's niece Esther and his friend Lisa through a GoFundMe campaign, intended to equip young musicians with essential knowledge and skills. The foundation focuses on teaching intellectual property rights, PRS registration, and the basics of setting up as a self-employed artist, areas that Thompson was passionate about during his lifetime.
The foundation's mission is to provide a robust support system for young and marginalized artists striving to make their mark in a competitive industry. It is led by a specialized team dedicated to fulfilling Thompson's dreams and aspirations for the next generation of artists.[4]