A renowned DJ, record label owner, and music producer who dominated the electronic dance music scene with his unique sound and chart-topping hits, earning him a Grammy award.
Erick Morillo is best known for his iconic hit "I Like to Move It," a song that has become synonymous with energy, movement, and joy. As a renowned DJ, music producer, and record label owner, Morillo's contributions to the world of house music are undeniable.
Morillo was born on March 26, 1971, in New York City to a Colombian family. At the age of 11, he moved to Cartagena, Colombia, where he was exposed to the vibrant rhythms of salsa and merengue music. This early influence would later shape his unique sound and style.
Upon returning to the United States at age 11, Morillo began DJing at weddings and family gatherings, experimenting with genres like reggae and hip hop. He attended grammar school at Saint Joseph and Michaels School and later graduated from Emerson High School in Union City, New Jersey, in 1989.
Morillo's music career took off in the early 1990s with the release of "I Like to Move It" under the pseudonym Reel 2 Real. The song's infectious beat and catchy melody made it an instant hit, featuring in commercials, movies, and ringtones around the world.
As the founder of Subliminal Records, Morillo produced and released numerous chart-topping tracks, including "Fun" by Da Mob, which reached number one on the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart. He also worked under various pseudonyms, such as Ministers de la Funk, The Dronez, and RAW, showcasing his versatility as a producer.
Morillo's contributions to the music industry were recognized with numerous awards and nominations. He won the Muzik magazine Remixer of the Year award in 1999 and was a three-time winner of the DJ Awards Best House DJ in 1998, 2001, and 2003. He also received three Best International DJ awards in 2002, 2006, and 2009, with a total of 15 nominations between 1998 and 2010.
Tragically, Morillo's life was cut short on September 1, 2020, when he passed away from a drug overdose at his home in Miami Beach. At the time of his death, he was facing rape charges and was scheduled to appear in court three days later.
Erick Morillo's legacy extends beyond his music to the countless lives he touched through his work. He paved the way for future generations of DJs and producers, inspiring them to experiment with new sounds and styles. His music continues to move and uplift people around the world, a testament to his enduring influence on the music industry.
In conclusion, Erick Morillo's remarkable career and contributions to house music have left an indelible mark on the industry. His music continues to inspire and energize people around the world, ensuring his legacy will live on forever.
58 Years Old
A world-renowned electronic dance music (EDM) icon, crafting chart-topping hits and electrifying crowds with infectious beats and collaborations with top artists.
57 Years Old
A world-renowned electronic dance music (EDM) icon, spinning chart-topping tracks and headlining festivals, revolutionizing the DJing scene.
49 Years Old
A world-renowned DJ and record producer, known for his trance and electronic dance music, with a massive global following and numerous chart-topping hits.
61 Years Old
Electronic music pioneer and animal rights activist, known for hits like "Porcelain" and "South Side," blending genres and pushing boundaries in the music industry.
