Underworld and Heller & Farley have recorded a cover of Frankie Knuckles’ 1987 Chicago house classic “Baby Wants To Ride” to be released via Junior Boys Own on March 31, 2015, the first anniversary of the legendary DJ/producer’s death. The release follows an array of artists, including Def Mix partner David Morales, Tony Humphries and Jimmy Edgar, who have paid tribute to the master since his passing.
The interpretation of one of Knuckles’ signature tunes will be released digitally and on limited edition 12” vinyl by Junior Boys Own/Caroline International. All proceeds of the record will go to the Frankie Knuckles Fund, which is part of the Elton John AIDS Foundation.
“As the creator of house music we owe Frankie a huge debt. Karl and I have always seen Frankie as the source and, as Underworld, we’re always swimming in his river,” said Underworld’s Rick Smith.
“My relationship with Frankie goes back a long way. Twenty-five years ago, Frankie championed the early music Pete Heller and I made and many of the first releases on Junior Boys Own. He helped turn a group of suburban London music fans into DJs and producers who could travel the world, simply by his patronage,” said Terry Farley.
Sir Elton John said of the release, “It’s fabulous. I have always LOVED Underworld. This is a great track and tribute to Frankie. Thanks to everyone involved from me and everyone at the Elton John AIDS Foundation.”
You can buy the track digitally now at babywantstoride.com, ensuring all proceeds go direct to the charity, without any retailer margin deductions. The limited edition of 1,000 vinyl 12″s and the digital bundle are available at as “Pay What You Want” (subject to a minimum of £12 plus shipping for the vinyl and £3 for the digital bundle).
Stay tuned for an upcoming tribute to Frankie Knuckles publishing next month.