The Pop Corporation

One of the most infectious, dancefloor exploding tracks of the ’90s was the irresistible and utterly immense ‘Jump N Shout’ by Basement Jaxx, headed up by the irrepressible Slarta John who made the song erupt with energy and joy.

Sadly, Slarta John – real name Mark James – has passed away, as confirmed by Basement Jaxx themselves. James was best known for being an MC, but he was also a producer who hailed from the rich culture hub of Birmingham.

Basement Jaxx said: “In 1997 Slarta John’s voice appeared on a version of the track Bizzi’s Party by Bizzi. He had his own style which was melodic, joyful and vibrant, I felt like he was laughing as he sang. We managed to track him down with the view to collaborate on a song full of energy, positivity and love of life, the result was ‘Jump ‘N Shout’. From there Slarta joined us and performed with us live as the show slowly developed. We travelled throughout the globe, doing headline slots at Fuji Rock, Glastonbury, Hollywood Bowl and the like. Wherever we’d go he’d perform with strength, vigour and gravitas, commanding the crowd like a king, proudly parading a Jamaican flag along with a flag of the country we were visiting as a symbol of unity and a nod to sound system culture.”

“He loved, laughed and was loved by many, going on to collaborate with many other artists and to produce music of his own.”

“Thank you for all you gave us and for sharing your great gift and energy with the world.”