TOSHI MAEDA

Born in 1967 in Adachi-Ku, one of the oldest districts of Tokyo, Toshi Maeda always loved Music, from an early age. However, upon landing a part-time job at a local record store in his teens, Toshi's love-affair with Music took on a whole new meaning, when he was exposed to a plethora of different musical styles, including early Chicago House, which to this day, has had a lasting impact on him. Toshi has since graced the enigmatic Tokyo underground Dance landscape for 27 years now, and is heralded as one of several disciples of Deep Dance Music in Japan.

Merlin Bobb, New York native and celebrated DJ, producer, and music executive is widely recognized as a pioneer of house music. His groundbreaking contributions continue to earn acclaim, including his highly anticipated Boiler Room debut DJ set in 2023.

Merlin’s career began on the airwaves with his first mix show on WBLS, where he quickly became a favorite among dance music fans. His show became a landmark for introducing early Chicago, New York, and New Jersey house music to a wider audience. Constantly pushing boundaries with new sounds and techniques, Merlin helped redefine the art of DJing and laid the foundation for a remarkable career in music.

Beyond the decks, Merlin shaped the direction of house and dance music as an executive at Atlantic and Elektra Records. He was instrumental in bringing house into the mainstream while collaborating with and championing legends like Frankie Knuckles, Timmy Regisford, Roger Sanchez, Kerri Chandler, David Morales, Louie Vega, Tony Humphries, and DJ Spinna. At the same time, he worked with some of the biggest names in hip-hop and R&B—Missy Elliott, Brandy, Busta Rhymes, Pharrell Williams, Timbaland, Outkast, Dr. Dre, and more during his tenure as Senior Vice President of A&R.

Merlin also helped shape New York nightlife as co-founder of Club Shelter in 1991, a cultural institution whose influence continues to resonate across global club culture today.

Now, after years behind the scenes, Merlin has returned to DJing and producing, reigniting his connection with longtime fans and reaffirming his role as a vital force in the house music movement.

Follow him: @merlinbobb4

Dutch composer, known for Kynseed.
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