Overview
This video provides a comprehensive history and career overview of bass music duo Zeds Dead, tracing their evolution from early collaborations to major album releases, influential tours, and the launch of their labels and events.
Formation and Early Years
- Zeds Dead consists of Toronto natives Zachary Rapp-Rovan (Hooks) and Dylan Mamid (DC).
- Hooks’ nickname comes from Captain Hook and his love for song hooks; DC stands for Dusty Crates, a nod to digging for rare music.
- The two were introduced through a family connection and bonded over hip-hop and graffiti.
- Their first project together was Mass Productions, releasing one album, "Fresh Beats," in 2007.
Transition to Zeds Dead (2009–2011)
- Adopted the name Zeds Dead in 2009, referencing a famous line from "Pulp Fiction" and their initials.
- Early work included remixes of rock songs and original track "Journey of a Lifetime."
- Gained local traction through music posted on MySpace and the founding of the "Bassmentality" event series.
- Their "Eyes on Fire" remix brought them widespread recognition and led to their first North American tour.
Early Releases and Growth (2012–2015)
- Released the "Adrenaline" and "Victor" EPs, with collaborations featuring rapper Omar Linx.
- Continued releasing genre-spanning tracks and dealt with fan backlash over stylistic changes (e.g., "Hot Sauce" EP).
- Debut album "Somewhere Else" (2014) charted on Billboard, and initiated their annual "Deadrocks" event at Red Rocks in Colorado.
- "Two Night Stand" tour held in historic venues and benefited a recovery clinic.
Label Launches and Major Milestones (2016–2021)
- Founded their label, Deadbeats, in 2016, supporting major bass music artists.
- Released sophomore album "Northern Lights" and embarked on related tours.
- Slowed releases in 2018-2019, with ties to the Deathpact project hinted at.
- Launched annual Deadbeats Backyard Jamboree in Denver, expanding their live event presence.
Recent Work and Continued Innovation (2020–2023)
- Released collaborations with artists like Peekaboo, Rez, and Nightmare.
- Dropped the downtempo album "Catching Z's" (2021) on their new label Altered States, with an immersive visual album.
- Released "The Lost Tapes Vol. 1," featuring unreleased tracks from 2008–2009.
- Continued diversity in releases with tracks on multiple labels and collaborations across genres.
Artistic Identity and Legacy
- Zeds Dead is known for genre versatility, spanning bass, house, hip-hop, and more.
- Their refusal to be pigeonholed and focus on creative freedom has defined their career trajectory.
- Ongoing projects and events suggest continued innovation and surprises in their future.