The history of global dance music can’t be written without several chapters dedicated to the UK’s finest ambassador, Carl Cox. More than a DJ or producer, Cox is a veteran of acid house, a champion of techno, a label owner, and, simply put, a master of the craft.
Humble Beginnings to Three-Deck Wizardry
Carl Cox’s journey began in the late 70s and early 80s, where he honed his skills playing soul, rare groove, and New York hip-hop. But it was the arrival of Chicago House and the explosion of the UK rave scene in the late 80s—the famous Second Summer of Love—that set him on his legendary path.
Cox was a pivotal figure in that era, famously playing the opening night of Danny Rampling’s legendary Shoom. He quickly earned the nickname “Three-Deck Wizard” after unveiling his signature technique of mixing three records simultaneously at the 1988 Sunrise rave, a feat of technical skill that instantly set him apart.
Get ready to be amazed
If you want to see Carl Cox in action watch his Radio 1 Essential Mix live at UNVRS.
Chart Hits and the Techno Pioneer
While Cox had pop success in the early 90s with tracks like “I Want You (Forever)” (which landed him on Top of the Pops), he soon focused on the underground sound he truly loved: Techno.
In 1995, he cemented his status as a techno benchmark with his seminal mix CD, F.A.C.T. (Future Alliance of Communications and Tecknology), which went on to sell hundreds of thousands of copies. His commitment to the genre led him to form his influential record label, Intec Records (now Intec Digital), providing a vital platform for cutting-edge electronic music.
Ibiza: Music Is Revolution
No story of Carl Cox is complete without mentioning his epic 15-year residency at Space Ibiza from 2001 to 2016. His weekly party, “Music is Revolution,” became the island’s most successful and globally revered night. He not only brought the best talent to the island but created an atmosphere—a musical celebration—that defined an entire era of clubbing. He truly earned his title as the “King of Ibiza.”
Today, Carl Cox continues to headline festivals worldwide, including his own hugely popular “Carl Cox & Friends” stages at events like Ultra Music Festival. With his infectious smile, “Oh Yes, Oh Yes!” catchphrase, and unwavering passion for playing music, Cox remains the most complete and influential DJ in the electronic music world.
