The UK house scene just lost one of its most vibrant pioneers. Leeds-based DJ and producer Nick Hannam has passed away, leaving a legacy that's deeply woven into the fabric of northern club culture.
If you’ve raved anywhere near Leeds or caught wind of the jackin’ house and bassline movements in the early 2010s, there’s no way Nick Hannam wasn’t on your radar. From sweaty basement sessions to full-blown club anthems, his productions had an undeniable energy—raw, fun, and full of groove. Tracks like “Serious”, “Love You Girl”, and the cheeky banger “I Like To Fck”* didn’t just light up dance floors—they defined them.
His sound wasn’t just heard—it was felt. Hannam had this uncanny knack for blending funk-driven basslines with slick, punchy percussion, creating that classic UK jackin’ flavor that sent dancers into a frenzy. He helped carve out a proper identity for the genre during a time when it was finding its shape and soul.
The scene saw a major crossover moment in 2016 when Hannam teamed up with long-time collaborator Tom Zanetti on “You Want Me”. The tune went platinum in the UK and charted in Belgium, a testament to the duo’s electric chemistry and Hannam’s ability to craft something that hits both the underground and mainstream sweet spots.
Zanetti shared a heartfelt tribute, calling Hannam a “beautiful soul” and expressing deep sorrow at the loss. It’s a sentiment echoed by countless fans and artists who were moved by his music—and his energy.
Nick Hannam wasn’t just a DJ or producer. He was a catalyst. A force in the booth. An architect of the UK’s modern house landscape who brought serious vibes, serious talent, and serious love for the music.