British dub and soundsystem legend Ras Muffet – real name Steve Johnson – has passed away.
The news of his death was confirmed in a statement shared with Resident Advisor by his label Roots Injection. Muffet was known for his extensive work as a soundman and producer for five decades and was behind various classics such as ‘Ethiopian King Dub’, ‘New Dawning’ and ‘Trouble & Strife’, some of which became regular fixtures on sound systems such as the Mighty Tabot, Channel One Sound, Aba Shanti-I, and Iration Steppas.
Muffet was also an associate of Jah Shaka as well as a crew member of the legendary Jah Shaka Sound System in the early ’70s. During the ’90s, Muffet went on to run his own label – Roots Injection – which would go on to play an essential role in connecting the sounds of both dub and roots reggae together. Roots Injection was heavily involved in dubplate culture and produced exclusive, unreleased tracks specifically created for sound system clashes or special sessions.
DJs, producers, fans and sound system collectives all around the world have shared tributes to the legend on social media.
Jah Shaka’s family shared an Instagram post in honour of the late Muffet with a caption that read: “We would like to send condolences to the family & close friends of well known music producer Ras Muffet, whom has sadly passed away.”
It continued: “Muffet, known predominantly across Bristol, London and Wolverhampton, UK, was a devout crew member of Jah Shaka Sound System in the early to mid 70s.”
Artist Macka B also paid tribute to Muffet and noted working with him in Wolverhampton back in the 70’s: “R.I.P Ras Muffett Original Roots Soundman. Known him from the seventies in Wolverhampton with Fari Studio and Jah Marcus Sound. Always greeted you with a smile. Jah guidance on your journey mi bredrin. Ancestral realms 🙏🏿 Condolences to the family.”
Check out more tributes below.
A GoFundMe page was created to help towards the costs of Muffet’s funeral. Visit here to donate and for more information. Muffet is survived by his wife, Sue, his children and grandchildren.
