Slarta John, MC on Basement Jaxx classic ‘Jump N Shout’ and more, dies

Slarta John, the Birmingham MC and producer known for his vocal contributions to a number of UK dance classics, has died. 

News of the artist born Mark James’ passing was shared yesterday (5th August) by Basement Jaxx, on whose landmark 1999 single ‘Jump N Shout’ he provided the vocals. “He had his own style which was melodic, joyful and vibrant, I felt like he was laughing as he sang,” they wrote, before sharing how he later went on tour with them, joining them during  headline festival slots at Glastonbury, Fuji Rock and elsewhere.

“Wherever we’d go he’d perform with strength, vigour and gravitas, commanding the crowd like a king, proudly parading a Jamaican flag along with a flag of the country we were visiting as a symbol of unity and a nod to sound system culture. He loved, laughed and was loved by many, going on to collaborate with many other artists and to produce music of his own.”

“Thank you for all you gave us and for sharing your great gift and energy with the world. Love to Carol and all your family. Sending you much love and peace as you venture out to the world beyond this one.”

No cause of death has been disclosed at the time of writing, but tributes have been paid across social media by those who knew and worked with Slarta John over the years. Among them is Canadian DJ and producer, Hatiras, whose 2001 track ‘Spaced Invader’ for Defected Records was sent into orbit thanks to the MC’s energetic flow. 

“He was one of the most talented vocalists I’ve ever worked with,” wrote the artist. “He was the biggest voice of the time and also well known for many of his other tunes… May his soul rest in peace and his voice live eternally on through his music.”

Seamus Haji, who was involved in the running of Defected when the label signed Hatiras’ track also shared a story of how John came to feature on it. “Slarta was a lovely chap and a real pleasure to work with,” he said. “Full of positive energy!”

In its tribute, Defected wrote: “His influence on the UK dance scene will live on. We’re deeply saddened by his passing. Sending love to his family and friends from all of us at Defected.”

DJ Zinc, who worked with Slarta John on the drum & bass cut ‘Film’, called him a “legendary vocalist”, adding: “He smashed the vocals on our track ‘Flim’, and made me the best special I ever had. Rest easy king.”

Fellow Birmingham artist Jeremy Sylvester wrote: “RIP to another Brummie legend — the one and only Slarta John. I had the honour of working with Slarta many years ago as part of the Housebreakerz, signed to Basement Jaxx’s label Atlantic Jazz, alongside Nathan E. Drake. We also collaborated on a track called ‘Sex Weed’ with Charlotte Hodgson, released through Defected/Stealth Recordings… May his soul rest in peace. Sending love and strength to all his family.”

In 2012, an album called ‘The Many Moods of Slarta John‘ was released, compiling a selection of his collaborative works as well as original tracks such as ‘Step Up To It’, ‘So Life Go’ and ‘Get Wild’.

Listen to ‘Jump N Shout’ and ‘Spaced Invaders’, and read a selection of tributes to the influential MC, below.