Globally revered DJ/producer/label owner Michael Zucker died on September 26 after a two-year battle with colon cancer. He had entered hospice two days before his death.
Born and raised in Boston, Zucker got into DJing in 1988. He went on to work for Balance Music Group and began co-producing tracks for Balance Recordings. He later struck up a friendship with Chicago house pioneer Chez Damier and began to collaborate with him
“I linked up with Chez in 2004,” he told Innate in 2018. “It was quite cool how we met really. I emailed him and we started talking about GOD, and how we both believe. We became really close friends.”
Damier was a contributor to Zucker’s long-running Finale Sessions, a label that released sublime deep-house gems by Luke Hess, Willie Grafff & Tuccillo, Alan Oldham, Patrice Scott, Fred P, Kai Alce, and Keith Worthy.
In 2018, Zucker attained a professional milestone when he released his full-length debut album on Finale Sessions, Draw Closer. At the time he said of the album, “I am very honored to be able to present to you my life story in these 8 songs !!! This is my debut album and I am thankful for the gifts that God gives me to be able to express my thoughts and actions to you !!! I love you.”
Rhonda Dietz, a longtime friend, has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help pay for Zucker’s funeral and burial expenses.
Zucker is survived by his sister, Kelly Zucker Davis. According to Dietz, she is dealing with her own health issues and the loss of their mother last year.
Damn man, we lost Mike Zucker of Finale Sessions. What a gent. Condolences to his family during this sad time. All we can do is push on. What a year.
— alan_oldham (@alan_oldham) September 26, 2020
We’re devastated by the loss of Michael Zucker. A loving friend to those he crossed paths with, he made an impact on so many through his spirit and left a lasting legacy with his music and Finale Sessions label. He will be greatly missed.
Farewell, Mike, until we meet again. pic.twitter.com/jklqCdKBLT
— Open House Conspiracy (@ohcmusic) September 26, 2020
RIP to Michael Zucker. He might not have been the biggest name to the general public but all the deep heads knew him. I am proud to have my old group included in the list of releases on his Finale Sessions label. And he was just a very chill dude who loved music.
— Fierce Brosnan (@pipecock) September 26, 2020