A significant figure in UK electronic music...
The founder of The Black Dog, Ken Downie, has passed away.
The Sheffield artist died on December 20th, though no details regarding the cause of death have been disclosed. His bandmates shared their sorrow in a message on social media:
“It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Ken Downie on 20/12/25. Rest in peace, brother; you will be greatly missed and never forgotten. Our condolences to Sheena and his family.”
Ken Downie emerged from the rich electronic scene that thrived in Sheffield during the mid to late 80s. He initially created The Black Dog to express his home-recorded concepts and soon attracted collaborators like Andy Turner and Ed Handley, who would go on to form Plaid.
The Black Dog signed with Warp in 1993, and the group became an influential part of the label's esteemed roster.
As a sought-after remixer, Downie continued The Black Dog as a solo endeavor following the exit of Handley and Turner, later collaborating with Steve ‘Hotdog’ Ash and Ross Knight (“thek1d”) for the album 'Unsavoury Products.'
Richard and Martin Dust, owners of Dust Science Recordings, joined The Black Dog shortly after the turn of the Millennium, leading to a resurgence of fans. Their consistent output allowed the trio to broaden the techno genre, incorporating elements from ambient sounds to gritty industrial styles.
Earlier this year, The Black Dog released the album 'Loud Ambient.'
Rest in power, Ken Downie – we recommend checking out this intriguing Q&A on the fabric blog discussing the history of The Black Dog.
Join us on WeAre8 as we delve into global cultural events. Follow Clash Magazine HERE for updates on music, fashion, and film, and join us as we explore clubs, concerts, interviews, and photo shoots for behind-the-scenes glimpses into our world as the excitement unfolds.
Sign up for the Clash mailing list for the latest in music, fashion, and film news.
David Gilmour has raised a toast to Pink Floyd's success on the charts, as the progressive rock band has achieved an unexpected new record. The band's iconic album 'Wish You Were
The Band's collection is filled with treasures. As a group endowed with numerous songwriting talents, they have created an extraordinary legacy, blending rock,
Ken Downie, the founder of Black Dog, has passed away. The Sheffield musician died on December 20th, and no cause of death has been specified. In a message regarding the project’s