Rebecca HaithcoatJovan “J-1” Coleman, producer and drummer in Dam-Funk's band Master Blazter, passed away Sunday. He was 32 years old. The cause of death is unknown.
Late yesterday afternoon Dam-Funk tweeted, “At this time we send our most deep condolences 2 family & friends of @THEDEER (aka J-1/Jovan Coleman) whom in an accident passed in Sweden.”
The news shocked L.A.'s underground music scene, with Peanut Butter Wolf — of Master Blazter's label Stones Throw — and Questlove of the Roots sending out remembrances and notes of sympathy and respect on Twitter.
Dam-Funk announced a special set last night by Houseshoes — J Dilla's former DJ and Coleman's close friend — to be played at Funkmosphere, Dam-Funk's weekly party.
Coleman was born on March 5, 1979 in Cleveland, and taught himself how to play the drums. After relocating to San Francisco, he moved to Los Angeles in 2007. At the time of his death, he split his time between L.A. and Gothenburg, Sweden.
He became affiliated with Shafiq Husayn's En'AFreeKa Ensemble as well as Animal Kingdom. He's released several beat tapes and podcasts through Heavyweight Production House (HVW8), including Attack of The Deer and The You Tube EP. After a completely improvised session at HVW8 Art + Design Gallery, Master Blazter — made up of Computer Jay, Dam-Funk, and J-1 — has grown to become one of the foremost bands on the emerging modern funk scene.
Were you at Funkmosphere last night? Please tell us about the tribute in the comments section.
More details as they become available.
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