Maik Marold, the Berlin-based techno DJ/producer/head of Wall Music known more widely as Mike Wall, died last week. Marold suffered a fatal heart attack in his sleep. He was 34 and leaves behind a pregnant wife and son. As funeral plans are being arranged, the team at Wall Music have set up a YouCaring campaign to help Marold’s family during this difficult time. Donations can be made here.
Wall began dabbling with electronic music in the ’90s. He recorded his first release for Modulat in 2005. The following year, he made his debut on the London-based minimal label Safari Electronique. He went on to release tracks on smallroom music, Hidden Recordings, Sleaze, SCI+TEC, Suicide Circus Berlin and his own label Wall Music.
Artists from all over the global techno community have taken to social media to express their sorrow for Marold’s untimely passing. Wrote Manchester-based Gemma Furbank, “Wow, seriously sad news. One of Techno’s great artists, made incredible music, was an incredible DJ. I’m so shocked and saddened to hear Mike Wall has passed away. Sending my sympathy, love and condolences to all his family, colleagues and friends. Rest in peace.”
Rebekah posted, “Cant believe that Mike has sadly passed away. I played my first ever gig with him in Germany 6 years ago and most recently we played together in Paris. He had a great sense of humour and would always make touring that little bit more fun and interesting. In fact one of the last things he said to me after my set in Paris was if schranz was making a comeback….cheeky fucker!!! RIP Mike…you will be missed.”
Upon learning of Marold’s passing, Wall Music A&R MZR produced a heartfelt 10-minute tribute track available as a free download on his SoundCloud. We’ll have more as this story develops.
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