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Albert Leroy Moss (August 14, 1969 – September 10, 2001), better known by the stage name "DJ Uncle Al", was an American DJ from Miami, Florida.[1] He became known for his work as a music producer and broadcaster in the local community.[2] He was shot and killed on September 10, 2001.[3][4]
DJ Uncle Al | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Background information | |
| Birth name | Albert Leroy Moss |
| Also known as | Uncle Al |
| Born | August 14, 1969 |
| Died | September 10, 2001 (aged 32) Allapattah, Florida, U.S. |
| Genres | Southern rap, Miami bass, hip hop |
| Occupation(s) | DJ, rapper |
| Instrument | Turntables |
| Years active | 1990–2001 |
Biography
editBorn Albert Leroy Moss on August 14, 1969, in Miami, Florida, DJ Uncle Al was a pioneering DJ and influential figure in Miami's hip-hop community, becoming known for his energetic style and innovative mixes, which showcased his unique ability to blend various genres, including hip-hop, reggae, and dancehall. DJ Uncle Al developed a passion for music at an early age, graduating from Miami Northwestern High School.[citation needed]
He started his career in the mid-1980s, during a time when Miami bass—a high-energy, bass-heavy style of hip-hop—was gaining popularity, and worked as a broadcaster, hosting radio shows on local stations like WEDR 99 Jamz and Mixx 96. His shows, which often featured live mixing and freestyle sessions, became essential listening for fans of Miami bass and hip-hop. He was known for his catchphrase, "Let the bass blow your mind," which encapsulated the essence of his high-energy performances. As a producer, DJ Uncle Al helped to shape the sound of Miami bass, working with numerous artists and releasing several successful tracks that became anthems in the Miami music scene. His influence extended beyond music production as he promoted local talent and provided a platform for rising artists through his radio shows and live events.
DJ Uncle Al was deeply committed to his community and used his influence to promote positive messages and initiatives. He was known for organizing and participating in events that aimed to reduce violence and uplift the youth in Miami. His annual "Peace in the Hood" block parties were particularly popular, bringing residents together for a day of community solidarity, music and fun.
On September 10, 2001, DJ Uncle Al was shot and killed at the age of 32. The DJ Uncle Al "Peace in the Hood" festival is held in the Liberty City area of Miami in honor of him.[5][6]
References
edit- ^ "DJ Uncle Al, Biography". All Music. Rovi Corporation. Retrieved May 19, 2012.
- ^ David "Dro" Rosario (October 13, 2010). "Nine Years After DJ Uncle Al's Death, Miami's Hip-Hop Scene Remembers the Legend" (Article). Miami New Times. Miami New Times, LLC. Retrieved May 19, 2012.
- ^ Dave Tompkins (September 23, 2019). "An Oral History of the Miami Mobile DJ Scene". Retrieved May 25, 2021.
- ^ "Gunshot Wounds Kill Dj Uncle Al". Sun Sentinel. Sun Sentinel Articles. September 11, 2001. Archived from the original on December 31, 2013. Retrieved May 19, 2012.
- ^ "Peace in Da Hood". Festivals.com. Festival Media Corporation. Archived from the original on October 24, 2012. Retrieved May 20, 2012.
- ^ Victor Barrenechea. "The DJ Uncle Al "Peace in the Hood" Festival". Biscayne Boulevard Times. Archived from the original (News article) on July 20, 2012. Retrieved May 19, 2012.
External links
edit- The List of Murdered Deejays, Hosts, and Radio Personalities Archived 2012-04-06 at the Wayback Machine
- You Coulda Called Him Al, article exploring the Miami pirate radio dispute which was allegedly the catalyst for DJ Uncle Al's murder