Working as a booker and PR manager of smaller clubs and venues recently, I found it sometimes hard to book the artists you personally love to some venues. When I started, it took me great effort to get a good line-up, but there were always those events that just worked. One of them was Martin Dawson.

Martin Dawson was a Berlin-based DJ and producer, one half of Two Armadillos – loved for his productions all over the world and above all, a friend of many. I absolutely loved Maceo Plex’ remix of Martin Dawson’s Think about it feat. NRG on Pets Recording’s Friends Will Carry You Home EP series. It was one of the most often played vinyls in my sets.

Meeting Martin Dawson quite a few times in Berlin, at OFF Recordings and Pets Recordings gigs for example, when you saw him, he was always friendly, having a smile on his face and sparing some moments to say hello, even though he might have been exhausted after playing a live set or DJing for hours. I think I first met him at Watergate and was stoked to get to see him play a rough and rocking live set that was so different from his rather smooth and soft releases.

On Monday, 12.11.2012, the sad news reached me that Martin Dawson aka King Roc had eventually passed away. I was praying the past twelve days along many, I believe, that there was a chance he would recover from his collapse on November 1st.

Martin Dawson was an acquaintance and I worked with him at one occasion only, so I do not dare to write much. But I experienced him being very well organized, professional and always the brightest smiling person in the club, either as line-up artist or as guest. He gave me insight on how good bookings can work and I have learned from him.

Fans, friends and colleagues surounding me are mourning the loss.

Our thoughts are with his friends and family, especially his girlfriend.

R.I.P. Martin, was pleased to meet you.

From a fan.