Highly influential DJ/producer Tim Baker has died, according to reports on social media. The cause of death is not yet known. On March 28, he took to Instagram while at the United Center in Chicago to share that he had received his first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. “First shot is in the books! Can’t wait to see all you guys again soon!!!”
A native of Detroit, Baker, who ran the clothing line turned record label Elephanthaus, came of age during techno’s nascent days in the ’80s. Influenced by hometown heroes Derrick May and Jeff Mills, he went on to earn an international reputation for his flawless productions released on Spain’s Minifunk Label, Ovum and BML in America., and NovaMute in Germany.
Known for a wide-ranging sound that covered every corner of techno, he graced the decks at club bastions including Berlin’s Tresor and Paris’ Rex Club.
In 1998, Baker moved to Chicago. The Windy City’s vibrant house scene inspired him to launch his house label, Real Estate Records.
This is a breaking story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
Shocked to find out about Tim Baker’s @TB313 untimely passing. I was just emailing him last week to let him know how I enjoy his newest release. My deepest condolences to his family, and friends. R.I.P. buddy! 😢 pic.twitter.com/EHb02GsbUQ
— christian smith (@CSmithLIVE) April 4, 2021
Our dear friend @TB313 has died. Confirmed by those who were there. Definitely one of the good ones. I had dinner with him and @djhyperactive last time I was in #Chicago. I’m in shock😭😭😭😭
— alan_oldham (@alan_oldham) April 4, 2021