Horst Weidenmueller, the visionary behind the influential indie/electronic label !K7 and the groundbreaking DJ-Kicks compilation series, has passed away at the age of 60. The label announced the news on February 11, citing a serious illness as the reason for his untimely death.
Originally from the Black Forest region of Germany, Weidenmueller made his mark in Berlin in the 1980s by founding !K7 in 1985, initially to produce music videos. A decade later, the label transformed into a prominent record label, championing the techno and house genres while introducing the iconic DJ-Kicks series. This innovative compilation allowed DJs and producers to create sets that transcended traditional formats, bridging the gap between dancefloor and home listening.
The launch of DJ-Kicks with C.J. Bolland set a new standard in electronic music, attracting contributions from legendary artists whose mixes became iconic classics. Notable entries include the second installment by Austrian duo Kruder & Dorfmeister, along with significant contributions from acclaimed artists such as Four Tet, DJ Koze, Kemistry & Storm, James Holden, and the unique Moodymann.
Beyond DJ-Kicks, Weidenmueller was instrumental in signing influential artists to !K7, including A Guy Called Gerald, Matthew Herbert, and Erol Alkan, as well as notable music from artists like Tricky and more recent projects such as Hundred Waters and Bloc Party’s Kele Okereke.
In a heartfelt tribute, !K7 expressed that Weidenmueller’s “vision, passion, and dedication” shaped the label since its inception in 1985, stating that his legacy would continue to inspire future generations. Additionally, they highlighted his advocacy for the independent music community, commitment to environmental causes, and his impact on the industry that will resonate for years to come. The label remains dedicated to honoring his vision with the same integrity and passion that he demonstrated throughout his career.
