Zeds Dead

Zeds Dead: Revolutionizing EDM with Genre-Bending Beats and Epic Live Shows

When it comes to pushing the boundaries of electronic dance music, few artists exemplify the genre’s hybrid spirit quite like Zeds Dead. This Toronto-based duo has been mixing hip-hop, jungle, house, and bass music into a captivating sonic cocktail since 2009. We’ve watched them evolve from their hip-hop roots to become one of EDM’s most innovative acts.

Zeds Dead’s journey from underground sensation to festival headliners is a testament to their unique sound and relentless creativity. They’ve collaborated with various artists, from Omar LinX to Rivers Cuomo, showcasing their versatility and willingness to experiment. Their debut album, “Northern Lights,” released in 2016, solidified their position as electronic music trailblazers. They blend genres with effortless precision and deliver unforgettable performances that keep fans returning for more.

Introduction

Zeds Dead, the Canadian electronic music duo comprising Dylan Mamid (DC) and Zachary Rapp-Rovan (Hooks), has become a powerhouse in the EDM scene since its formation in 2009. Hailing from Toronto, Ontario, this dynamic pair has revolutionized bass music with their innovative dubstep, house, and drum and bass blend.

Initially producing hip-hop under Mass Productions, Zeds Dead’s transition to electronic music marked the beginning of their meteoric rise. Their moniker, inspired by a line from Quentin Tarantino’s “Pulp Fiction,” has become synonymous with cutting-edge electronic music.

Zeds Dead’s musical style defies simple categorization. They seamlessly fuse UK garage, electro house, and glitch elements into their signature sound. This versatility has positioned them as trailblazers in the North American bass scene, captivating audiences with genre-defying productions and electrifying live sets.

Early Life and Background

Zeds Dead, the electronic music duo from Toronto, Canada, consists of Dylan Mamid (DC) and Zachary Rapp-Rovan (Hooks). Their journey from childhood friends to EDM superstars is a testament to their shared passion for music and creative collaboration.

Personal Details

DC and Hooks, the masterminds behind Zeds Dead, hail from Toronto, Canada. Their friendship began in 2004 when DC asked Hooks to paint a graffiti mural in his garage. This encounter sparked a lifelong creative partnership that would eventually revolutionize the EDM scene. Both members share a deep love for music, particularly hip-hop and electronic genres, which has driven their collaboration since their teenage years.

Musical Beginnings

Before becoming Zeds Dead, Mamid and Rapp-Rovan collaborated under Mass Productions (MP Records) from 2006 to 2007. This early project was heavily influenced by 1990s hip-hop, laying the foundation for their future musical endeavors. Their sound evolved as they explored different genres and styles, incorporating dubstep, drum and bass, and house music elements. This experimentation led to the formation of Zeds Dead in 2009, marking the beginning of their journey into the world of electronic dance music. Their innovative approach to blending genres quickly gained attention in the Toronto underground scene, setting the stage for their meteoric rise in the EDM world.

Breakthrough in the EDM Scene

Zeds Dead’s rise to prominence in the EDM scene was marked by their unique sound and innovative approach to electronic music. Their breakthrough came in the late 2000s and early 2010s, setting the stage for their future success.

Early Tracks and Recognition

Zeds Dead’s initial success stemmed from their self-released tracks and creative marketing strategies. Their first track, “Journey of a Lifetime,” was released for free, helping them build a niche audience on Myspace. The duo’s early discography featured a mix of dubstep, UK garage, and drum and bass, showcasing their versatility in bass music production.

Essential tracks like “Rude Boy” and “Eyes on Fire” gained traction in the underground electronic scene, earning Zeds Dead recognition among dubstep enthusiasts. Their remix of Blue Foundation’s “Eyes on Fire” became viral, amassing millions of plays across various platforms and solidifying their reputation as innovative producers.

The duo’s first official North American tour in December 2010 and their European debut at the Gottwood festival in Wales in June 2010 marked significant milestones in their career. These performances exposed Zeds Dead’s dynamic live sets to a broader audience, further accelerating their rise in the EDM world.

Collaborations and Partnerships

Strategic collaborations and partnerships bolstered Zeds Dead’s breakthrough in the EDM scene. The duo’s ability to blend genres and work with diverse artists set them apart in the electronic music landscape.

Early collaborations with fellow Canadian producer Omar LinX resulted in popular tracks like “Out for Blood” and “Jackie Boy 2.0,” which expanded their fanbase and showcased their versatility. These partnerships demonstrated Zeds Dead’s ability to merge electronic elements with hip-hop vocals, creating a unique sound that resonated with fans of both genres.

Zeds Dead began collaborating with established EDM artists and vocalists as their reputation grew. Notable partnerships included tracks with Diplo, NGHTMRE, and Illenium, which helped solidify their position in the mainstream EDM scene. These collaborations enhanced their discography and exposed them to new audiences and festival circuits.

The duo’s remix work also played a crucial role in their breakthrough, with remixes for artists like Foo Fighters and Marina and the Diamonds gaining significant attention. These remixes demonstrated Zeds Dead’s ability to reimagine tracks across various genres, further establishing their reputation as versatile producers in the EDM world.

Signature Sound and Production Techniques

Zeds Dead’s signature sound is a dynamic blend of multiple electronic genres, creating a unique and versatile musical experience. Their production techniques and innovative approach have solidified their position as pioneers in the EDM scene.

What Type of EDM is Zeds Dead?

Zeds Dead’s music defies simple categorization, encompassing various EDM subgenres. Their sound primarily falls under bass music, incorporating dubstep, drum and bass elements, and house. The duo’s versatility seamlessly allows them to transition between heavy bass drops and melodic soundscapes. Zeds Dead’s tracks often feature:

• Thunderous basslines characteristic of dubstep
• Intricate drum patterns inspired by drum and bass
• Melodic elements reminiscent of house music
• Hip-hop influences in their rhythms and vocal samples

This eclectic mix has established Zeds Dead as innovators in the North American bass scene, appealing to fans of multiple EDM subgenres.

Similar Artists

Zeds Dead’s unique sound has positioned them alongside prominent bass music producers. Some artists with similar styles include:

1. Bassnectar – Known for heavy bass and genre-blending
2. Excision – Recognized for aggressive dubstep and bass music
3. Flux Pavilion – Produces melodic dubstep and electro-house
4. Skrillex – Pioneered the American dubstep sound
5. Rusko – Influential in popularizing dubstep globally
6. Nero – Combines cinematic elements with bass music
7. NGHTMRE – Collaborator is known for trap and dubstep fusion

These artists share Zeds Dead’s penchant for bass-heavy productions and genre-defying creativity, appealing to similar audience demographics within the EDM community.

Evolution of Sound

Zeds Dead’s musical journey has seen significant evolution since its inception:

1. Early days (2009-2011): Focused on dubstep and electro house
2. Mid-period (2012-2015): Expanded into drum and bass and trap
3. Recent years (2016-present): Incorporation of more melodic elements and genre experimentation

Critical milestones in their sound evolution include:

• “Rude Boy” (2010): Established their dubstep credentials
• “Collapse” EP (2012): Showcased their versatility across genres
• “Northern Lights” album (2016): Demonstrated mature, diverse production style
• “We Are Deadbeats Vol. 4” (2020): Collaborative album highlighting their influence in bass music

This evolution reflects Zeds Dead’s commitment to pushing boundaries and reinventing their sound.

Production Techniques

Zeds Dead employs various production techniques to create their distinctive sound:

1. Layer stacking: Combining multiple synths and samples for rich textures
2. Bass processing: Using multiband compression and distortion for powerful low-end
3. Sound design: Creating unique synth patches and effects
4. Vocal manipulation: Pitching and chopping vocals for added depth
5. Groove programming: Crafting intricate drum patterns for danceable rhythms
6. Spatial effects: Utilizing reverb and delay for immersive soundscapes

These techniques contribute to Zeds Dead’s ability to craft dynamic, energetic tracks that resonate with live audiences and studio listeners.

Discography

Zeds Dead’s discography showcases their evolving sound and collaborative spirit:

Albums:

• “Northern Lights” (2016)
• “We Are Deadbeats Vol. 4” (2020)

EPs:

• “Victor” (2012)
• “Hot Sauce” (2013)
• “Somewhere Else” (2014)
• “Catching Z’s” (2021)

Notable singles:

• “Rude Boy” (2010)
• “Collapse” (2012)
• “Lost You” feat. Twin Shadow & D’Angelo Lacy (2014)
• “Frontlines” with NGHTMRE (2016)

Their discography also includes numerous remixes and collaborations, solidifying their reputation as versatile producers in the EDM world.

Tours and Live Performances

Zeds Dead’s touring history showcases their rise from underground artists to festival headliners. Their dynamic live sets have captivated audiences worldwide, solidifying their position as EDM powerhouses.

Memorable Tours

Zeds Dead’s touring career kicked off with a bang in 2010. Their first official North American tour in December 2010 covered over 40 shows across Canada and the United States. This initial run set the stage for their explosive growth in the live performance scene.

The duo’s breakout tour, “The Graveyard Tour,” launched in 2011. This large-scale endeavor spanned over 50 dates across North America from September to December. It marked a significant milestone in Zeds Dead’s career, exposing their unique blend of bass music and dubstep to a broader audience.

Another notable tour was the “Living Dead Tour,” which garnered attention for its innovative approach to fan engagement. During this tour, Zeds Dead shot the music video for their single “You and I,” incorporating footage from various North American shows. The resulting video became a viral hit, amassing over 21 million views on YouTube and further cementing their status as EDM icons.

Festival Appearances

Zeds Dead’s festival performances have been instrumental in expanding their fanbase and showcasing their versatile sound. Their European debut at the Gottwood Festival in Wales in June 2010 marked their first international festival appearance, introducing their energetic live sets to a global audience.

Since then, Zeds Dead has become a staple at major EDM festivals worldwide. They’ve graced the stages of renowned events such as:

• Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC)
• Ultra Music Festival
• Coachella
• Lollapalooza
• Tomorrowland

These high-profile appearances have allowed Zeds Dead to showcase their evolving musical style, incorporating elements of dubstep, drum and bass, and house music into their sets. Their festival performances are known for their high-energy crowd interactions and seamless genre-blending, often featuring original tracks and remixes.

Achievements & Awards

Zeds Dead’s live performances and touring achievements have garnered significant recognition in the EDM community. While specific award information is limited, their impact on the electronic music scene is evident through their:

• Sold-out headlining tours across North America and Europe
• Main stage slots at premier EDM festivals
• Consistently high rankings on DJ Mag’s Top 100 DJs list
• Millions of streams and views on their live set recordings

The duo’s label, Deadbeats, has also played a crucial role in their success. Through Deadbeats, Zeds Dead has released their music and promoted emerging artists, further solidifying their influence in the bass music scene.

Their ability to consistently deliver captivating live sets, coupled with their innovative approach to blending genres, has earned them a dedicated fanbase and respect from peers in the industry. These achievements underscore Zeds Dead’s status as trailblazers in the ever-evolving world of electronic dance music.

Personal Life and Off-stage Persona

Zeds Dead, comprising Dylan “DC” Mamid and Zachary “Hooks” Rapp-Rovan, maintain a low profile regarding their personal lives. The Toronto-based duo focuses primarily on their music career and professional endeavors in the electronic dance music scene.

Interests Outside of Music

While Zeds Dead primarily focuses on creating and performing EDM, they’ve expanded their interests within the music industry. They founded Deadbeats Records, which has evolved into a lifestyle brand and live events powerhouse. This venture allows them to showcase emerging talent and curate unique experiences for fans beyond their performances. The duo’s involvement in Deadbeats demonstrates their passion for nurturing the electronic music community and supporting up-and-coming artists.

Zeds Dead’s interests also extend to visual arts, as evidenced by their collaboration on music videos and album artwork. Their creative vision often incorporates striking visuals that complement their bass music and dubstep productions. This interest in visual media enhances their overall artistic expression and adds depth to their brand identity.

Relationships and Collaborations

Zeds Dead’s professional relationships and collaborations have played a crucial role in shaping their career. They’ve worked with various artists across various genres, showcasing their versatility and openness to musical experimentation. Notable collaborations include tracks with Omar LinX, Diplo, NGHTMRE, and Illenium, each bringing a unique flavor to Zeds Dead’s signature sound.

These partnerships have expanded their musical horizons and strengthened their position in the EDM community. Through their label, Deadbeats, Zeds Dead continues to foster relationships with emerging artists, providing a platform for new talent to shine. This collaborative spirit has contributed to their influence in the bass music scene and helped solidify their reputation as innovators in electronic dance music.

Legacy and Influence

Zeds Dead’s impact on the EDM landscape is undeniable. Their genre-blending approach to production has inspired a new generation of electronic musicians, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in bass music and dubstep. The duo’s ability to seamlessly fuse hip-hop, drum and bass elements, and house into their tracks has set a new standard for creativity in electronic music production.

Their live sets, known for their high energy and eclectic mix of genres, have become legendary in the festival circuit. Zeds Dead’s performances at major events like Electric Daisy Carnival and Ultra Music Festival have left a lasting impression on fans and fellow artists alike. Through their label, Deadbeats, they’ve created a platform for emerging talent, further cementing their legacy as artists, tastemakers, and mentors in the electronic music scene.

Follow Zeds Dead on Social Media

To stay up-to-date with Zeds Dead’s latest releases, tour dates, and festival performances, follow them on these social media platforms:

• Facebook: Zeds Dead
• Twitter: @zedsdead
• Instagram: @zedsdead
• YouTube: Zeds Dead
• SoundCloud: Zeds Dead

Following Zeds Dead on social media offers:

• Exclusive updates on new tracks and remixes
• Behind-the-scenes content from live shows and studio sessions
• Announcements for upcoming collaborations with other EDM artists
• Previews of unreleased bass music and dubstep productions
• Information on Deadbeats label releases and events

Zeds Dead frequently shares snippets of their live sets, teases upcoming music videos, and interacts with fans through these channels. Their social media presence reflects their dynamic musical style, blending dubstep, drum and bass elements, and other electronic genres.

Conclusion

Zeds Dead’s journey from underground hip-hop producers to EDM trailblazers is a testament to their innovative spirit and musical versatility. Their unique blend of genres has captivated audiences worldwide, making them a powerhouse in the electronic music scene.

Through their groundbreaking releases, collaborations, and electrifying live performances, Zeds Dead continues to push the boundaries of bass music. Their influence extends beyond their productions as they nurture emerging talent through Deadbeats Records.

As Zeds Dead evolves, we eagerly anticipate their future contributions to the ever-changing landscape of electronic dance music. Their legacy as pioneers and mentors in the EDM community is firmly established, ensuring their impact will be felt for years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are Zeds Dead?

Zeds Dead is a Toronto-based electronic music duo formed in 2009. Dylan Mamid (DC) and Zachary Rapp-Rovan (Hooks) are members. The duo is known for its innovative blend of genres, including dubstep, house, and drum and bass, which has positioned it as a trailblazer in the North American bass music scene.

How did Zeds Dead get their name?

“Zeds Dead” is a line from Quentin Tarantino’s 1994 film Pulp Fiction. It also conveniently represents the first initials of the duo’s members, Zach and Dylan (Z & D). This clever naming choice reflects their cultural influences and personal identities.

What genre of music does Zeds Dead produce?

Zeds Dead’s music defies simple categorization. They primarily produce bass music, blending dubstep, house, drum and bass elements, UK garage, electro house, and glitch. Their sound has evolved, incorporating more melodic elements and genre experimentation while maintaining their signature heavy basslines and intricate drum patterns.

What was Zeds Dead’s breakthrough moment?

Zeds Dead’s breakthrough came in the late 2000s and early 2010s with self-released tracks and creative marketing strategies. Essential tracks like “Rude Boy” and their viral remix of Blue Foundation’s “Eyes on Fire” earned them recognition. Their first North American tour in December 2010 and European debut at the Gottwood festival in June 2010 significantly expanded their audience.

What is Deadbeats?

Deadbeats is a record label founded by Zeds Dead. It serves as a platform for showcasing emerging talent in the electronic music scene and curating unique experiences for fans. Through Deadbeats, Zeds Dead promotes new artists and solidifies their influence in the bass music community.

How has Zeds Dead’s sound evolved?

Zeds Dead’s sound has significantly evolved since its formation. In its early days, it focused on dubstep and electro-house. Over time, it has incorporated more melodic elements and expanded its genre experimentation while maintaining its core bass music identity. This evolution is evident in its albums and collaborations with various artists.

What are some of Zeds Dead’s most notable performances?

Zeds Dead has become a staple at major EDM festivals like Electric Daisy Carnival, Ultra Music Festival, and Coachella. They’re known for high-energy performances and genre-blending sets. Their achievements include:

• Sold-out tours.
• Main stage slots at premier festivals.
• A strong presence on DJ Mag’s Top 100 DJs list.

How can fans stay updated on Zeds Dead’s latest releases and tour dates?

Fans can follow Zeds Dead on social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and SoundCloud. These channels offer exclusive updates on new tracks, behind-the-scenes content, announcements for upcoming collaborations, previews of unreleased music, and information on Deadbeats label releases and tour dates.