Decoded Magazine presents Ben Cain

When it comes to London’s electronic music scene, longevity is a rare currency. Trends come and go. Clubs open and close. Genres mutate beyond recognition. But some figures quietly shape the story across decades, not by chasing the spotlight, but by nurturing it from the shadows. Ben Cain is one of those figures.

A selector’s selector with deep roots in London’s sprawling underground, Ben’s journey is woven into the city’s musical DNA. For over 20 years, he’s been a trusted resident, dancefloor regular, promoter, mentor, and behind-the-scenes tastemaker. Whether commanding the booth at intimate basement sessions or working the fringes of grassroots culture, he’s remained uncompromising in his sound.

As the scene continues to evolve and commercial pressures creep in from every angle, Ben’s perspective is a timely reminder of what really matters: community, creativity, and a true love for the music. In this candid conversation with Decoded Magazine, Ben opens up about the parties that shaped him, the crews still doing it for the right reasons, and how he stays inspired after two decades in the game.

This isn’t about headline slots or hype cycles. It’s about the enduring power of underground culture, and the people who keep it alive.

You’ve been part of London’s DJ circuit for well over two decades. When you’re not behind the decks, where do you go to reconnect with the scene? Are there any parties or crews that still hold that raw, authentic energy?

Lately, when I get the chance to step out and immerse myself in the scene, I’ve been deliberately choosing events I wouldn’t usually attend, seeking to rediscover the essence of what drew me to music in the first place. One notable experience was at an old school house night called FAITH, where the legendary Terry Farley played a brilliant set that transported me back in time. The atmosphere was electric, filled with an energy that felt almost tangible. It was refreshing to see a crowd more focused on the music than on their phones; there were no devices in the air, just people genuinely enjoying the moment and connecting with the beat.

The crowd was older, a mix of familiar faces and new ones, all united by a shared love for authentic music. It felt like a gathering of true enthusiasts who appreciate the roots of house music, and it was a stark contrast to some of the more “trendy” events that can often feel superficial and detached. Here, the music felt honest and grounded, resonating with the soul rather than simply catering to fleeting trends. 

This experience reminded me of the power of the underground scene, where the focus is on the love for the art rather than commercial appeal. I’ve been exploring other parties and crews that still hold that raw, authentic energy, seeking out those hidden gems that remind me of the passion and excitement that first inspired me to become a part of this vibrant community. It’s all about reconnecting with the roots and celebrating the music that truly matters.

London’s scene is in constant flux, new crowds, formats, and rising costs. Are there any promoters still keeping the underground ethos alive while evolving with the times?

To be honest, I think the underground scene has taken a bit of a hit in the last five years, primarily due to the ever-changing landscape of London’s nightlife. With new crowds emerging, fresh formats being introduced, and rising costs making it challenging for smaller events to thrive, it can feel like the essence of what made the underground so special is becoming diluted. However, amidst these challenges, I’ve been really impressed by Houghton Festival. 

While it’s obviously grown significantly in size and popularity over the years, what stands out is that under the guidance of Craig Richards, it has managed to maintain its musical authenticity and still retains that essential underground feel that many of us cherish. This is a rare accomplishment in today’s climate, where many larger events often prioritise commercial viability over artistic integrity. Houghton Festival has created a unique atmosphere that encourages genuine connection and appreciation for the music, which is a refreshing change from the often more commercialized festivals.

I love how Houghton manages to showcase a diverse array of artists while keeping the lineup focused on quality and depth rather than just popular names. Because it’s curated like this it really helps with the growth and evolution of the underground scene. It’s clear that there are still promoters out there who understand the importance of staying true to the roots while also evolving with the times, and that gives me hope for the future of London’s nightlife.

You’ve played everything from XOYO and Basing House to private events in Cannes and Kensington. How do you mentally prepare for such a range of gigs? Do you adapt your energy and track selection, or stick to one identity?

Certainly! Here’s an expanded version of the answer, doubling its length:

I approach every event with an open mind and take on board the brief from the promoter, as I believe it’s essential to understand their vision and the atmosphere they want to create. However, I always trust my gut instinct when it comes to reading the crowd and the energy of the room. Each venue, whether it’s XOYO, Basing House, or a private event in Cannes or Kensington, has its unique vibe and audience, which means I must be adaptable in my approach.

I want the freedom to assess the room and use my judgment to create the right energy throughout my set. This involves not only being responsive to the crowd’s reactions but also being aware of the flow of the night. I often find that some of the best moments come from spontaneous decisions that align with the audience’s energy. That balance between respecting the event’s vision and doing what I do best is key to delivering an unforgettable experience.

While I certainly have a core identity as a DJ, I recognise the importance of being versatile. In more intimate settings, I might delve deeper into underground tracks, while at larger venues, I may opt for a more energetic and accessible selection to get the crowd moving. Ultimately, it’s about creating a connection with the audience, finding that sweet spot where my style merges with the expectations of the event. This adaptability not only keeps my sets fresh and exciting but also allows me to engage with different crowds, ensuring that every performance feels unique and memorable.

Every DJ has a few standout moments. Looking back, is there one surreal or chaotic experience that really sums up the wild ride of being a DJ?

Without a doubt, playing a B2B set with Jay-Z at the Four Seasons in Florence stands out as one of the most surreal  experiences of my career. We played old-school hip-hop all night and had plenty of drinks but we were on completely the same vibe. What made the night even more unforgettable was having Beyoncé on the dancefloor, fully immersed in the vibe with everyone else. Seeing her enjoying the music alongside the crowd added an extra layer of magic to the evening. Moments like these remind me of how lucky I am to have been able to do something I love which allows me to have these unforgettable experiences. 

On a more personal note, I met my wife at my own party, which adds a beautiful layer of meaning to my journe as a DJ. My best mate and I ran a Sunday night afterparty called AWAKE , which initially started as a small gathering but eventually grew to attract over a thousand people.  I vividly remember one particular night when I thought to myself, “We’ve created something really special here.” It was more than just a party; it was a community, a space where people could come together, and let loose.  Looking back, I realise how significant those moments were, not just for me as a DJ but for everyone involved. 

Let’s talk about your Decoded mix. There’s a strong narrative arc to it. Do you approach recorded mixes like a live set, or is it more for headphones and late-night listening?

I treat most of my mixes like a live set, which means I approach them with the same intention and energy that I would bring to a performance in front of a crowd. The dynamics of a live audience are incredibly important. However, for this particular mix, I wanted to take a different approach. I felt a strong desire to dig deep into my vinyl collection and play what I was genuinely loving at the time. This allowed me to explore my personal tastes and showcase tracks that may not always fit into a typical setlist but hold significant meaning for me.

In this mix, I aimed to create a personal narrative, weaving together the sounds and memories associated with each record. It was an opportunity to share a piece of myself with listeners,

You’re often described as a “Journey DJ.” What’s your philosophy on building a narrative in a set?

I never pre-plan a set because I believe that spontaneity is one of the most vital elements of a great performance. My approach is to feed off the energy of the crowd or the DJ before me, allowing the atmosphere to guide my choices as I play. Each event is unique, and the vibe in the room can shift rapidly, so I find it essential to stay adaptable and responsive to what’s happening around me. 

Sometimes, I’ll intentionally shift the direction completely to grab attention. This could mean introducing a genre that contrasts sharply with what’s been played before or jumping into a track that has a strong emotional pull. These moments are designed to surprise the audience, pulling them back into the experience and making them fully aware of what’s happening on the dancefloor. It’s a way to create a dynamic interplay between the music and the crowd, capturing their focus and energising the room.

Once I’ve established that connection, I build from there, navigating through ups and downs, creating tension and moments of release. This ebb and flow is critical; it allows the audience to experience a range of emotions throughout the set. This is one of the things that makes DJing so fulfilling for me; it’s not just about playing tracks, but about crafting moments that resonate deeply with people.

You run two parties, one rooted in house and techno, the other more disco and soul. When booking artists, what matters most to you? And have running events changed how you DJ?

The first thing I look for is vibe. Before considering popularity or follower counts, the music has to be right for the party; it’s all about capturing the essence of the event and creating an atmosphere that resonates with everyone present. The lineup order matters significantly, as does the flow of the set, it’s essential to create a seamless journey for the audience. Each element of the lineup should complement the others, building anticipation and excitement throughout the night.

Running events has definitely helped me understand the bigger picture, from promotion to atmosphere to timing. I’ve learned that every detail contributes to the overall experience, and it’s crucial to pay attention to how each piece fits together. It’s not just about the music; it’s about creating an environment where attendees feel comfortable and engaged, encouraging them to fully immerse themselves in the experience. 

For new DJs I would say, perfect your craft, mix every day, study your heroes, and immerse yourself in the scene that fits you. Understand what makes your favorite artists successful and draw inspiration from their journeys while developing your unique style. Build real relationships within the community, as networking can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations. If you do all of this with honesty and passion, opportunities will naturally arise. The key is to stay committed to your art and consistently seek ways to grow, both as a DJ and as an individual, ensuring that your journey remains authentic and fulfilling. 

You’ve played intimate VIP gigs for some major names, but also dark underground clubs. Do those different experiences teach you different things about connection and energy?

Honestly, not really. The vibe is so different at private parties that there’s not much crossover between those events and clubs. Private parties tend to have a more intimate atmosphere, often shaped by the specific preferences and dynamics of the guests. While those settings can be enjoyable in their own right, they don’t typically offer the same level of energy and spontaneity that I experience in clubs.

Clubs are where I really feel the energy and connection with the crowd. There’s something electric about being in a space filled with people who have come specifically to dance and enjoy the music. The collective enthusiasm and excitement create an environment that allows for a deeper interaction between the DJ and the audience. 

There’s a lot of pressure now on DJs to be content creators, marketers, designers… How do you stay grounded in a scene that can sometimes feel more image than substance?

I’m from a generation that grew up without social media, so I’m not wired to chase that stuff. My early years were spent in a time when connections were built face-to-face, and the focus was primarily on the music itself rather than on curating an online persona. I’ve always believed that the music comes first, as it is the foundation of everything we do as artists. If you focus too much on image and neglect your craft, you’ll get found out, especially in front of a musically savvy crowd. 

These audiences can tell when someone is genuinely passionate about their art versus when they’re simply trying to project an image. When you take the time to hone your skills and truly invest in your craft, it shows in your performances, and that authenticity resonates deeply with listeners. Being able to connect with an audience through music rather than through a polished social media presence is what truly matters to me. 

Finally, you’ve got new music dropping in 2025. What’s the journey been like moving into production? How has DJing shaped your approach?

Making music has been a long journey for me. I’m a DJ first and foremost, and I’ve never considered myself the most naturally studious individual, which means that focusing in the studio has taken time and effort. However, I’ve come to genuinely love the process of creating music, experimenting with sounds, trying out new ideas, and refining my craft. More importantly, I like the music I’m making now,

DJing has definitely played a crucial role in shaping my production skills. It helps me understand how to arrange tracks effectively and know when to keep things simple. Some of the greatest tracks in history are incredibly stripped-back, relying on a few powerful elements to create a lasting impact. That’s something I try to keep in mind when I’m producing, focusing on the essentials and allowing the music to breathe, rather than overcomplicating it with unnecessary layers. 

Track list

Intro – sugar is sweeter (Ben cain intro edit)
Magic Pincher – Insomnie
Traumer – Diplo
Unknown Artist -DRGSO7A
HOSTOMZZZ – B
Legit Trip – You Het Me
Stanley Cul de Brique – Ultra Violence
Spage – Err B
DJ Buck – Highlights (Original Mix)
Mike Huckaby – Sandcastle (The Culture Box Re Edit)
Silat Beksi – Shushu EP (12″, EP)
Jack Michael – Opposite Visions
Norris The Boss Windross – Funky Groove
24 Hour Experience- Allnighter
Craig Mack – Set It Off

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