Jolly Roger is an alias of Eddie Richards, also known as Acidman and Key Largo. Richards is a DJ and producer associated with the development of UK house and techno, and is described as one of the first DJs to champion house in the mid-1980s. He is also presented as one of the original mix DJs at London’s Camden Palace, and as a regular figure at major underground clubs and pay parties including Clink St., Heaven, the Hacienda, Sunrise, Energy and Helter Skelter.

Career

Richards gains a reputation through DJing and remix work, becoming closely linked with the rise of dance music culture in the UK. His style is described as a mix of deep bass-driven techno, soulful house and tribal house, a format he maintains over time and which leads to him being regarded as a pioneer of tech-house. He is also referred to as “Britain’s godfather of house and techno”.

Releases and remixes

His remix and production work leads to club records including Acidman, released in 1988 and reaching the UK National Top 20. He also produces chart-topping remixes for Ralphi Rosario, Orbital and The Shamen. Since the mid-1980s, he is included in many books, documentaries and films about dance culture.