Danny Rampling

Danny Rampling

Danny Rampling is a British house music DJ and producer from Streatham, United Kingdom, born in 1961. He is widely credited as one of the founders of the UK rave and club scene, and his work is closely associated with the early spread of acid house culture in Britain.

Career beginnings

Rampling begins his career in the early 1980s, playing hip-hop, soul and funk in bars and clubs across London. His early work places him in the city’s club circuit before his later association with house music and rave culture.

Ibiza, Shoom and acid house

A major turning point in his career comes during a holiday in Ibiza in 1986, when he is with Paul Oakenfold, Nicky Holloway, Johnnie Walker and Lisa Loud. At Amnesia in San Rafael, the group encounters DJ Alfredo and his varied sets, which include house music from the United States. Rampling also becomes aware of the connection between the music and Ecstasy (MDMA).

After returning to England, Rampling and his then wife Jenni create Shoom, regarded as the UK’s first rave club. It runs for three years, beginning in a gym in Southwark, London, and helps launch acid house culture across the country.

Later work

Rampling continues as a DJ and producer, remixing a range of UK and international acts. He also forms a band called The Millionaire Hippies.

Broadcasting

In November 1994, he joins the BBC and presents Lovegroove Dance Party on Radio 1 until March 2002. The show becomes the second longest running dance music programme on Radio 1 after Pete Tong’s Essential Selection.

Retirement from DJing

Rampling retires from DJing at the end of 2005 and turns to running a restaurant.