British DJ, producer and label owner Chris Stoker has died.
The news was confirmed by Andy Bainbridge, his longtime collaborator and co-founder of Not An Animal Records. Stoker passed away on Thursday, May 7. No official cause of death was disclosed publicly, although a GoFundMe campaign launched last November revealed he had been undergoing treatment and therapy connected to stage three kidney cancer.
Originally from the North East of England and later based in London, Chris Stoker became a deeply respected figure within underground electronic music circles through years of involvement in independent club culture, radio and DIY party organizing.
He was a resident at both The Gun and Soho Radio, where his selections reflected a wide-ranging and emotionally driven approach to underground dance music culture.
Beyond DJing, Stoker co-ran Not An Animal Records alongside Andy Bainbridge, helping shape the label into a respected platform for leftfield electronic sounds and community-focused underground events.
The label itself grew out of the Bad Passion Project parties, organized together with Bainbridge and Daniel Mitchell across various East London venues. Those nights became known for their intimate atmosphere, adventurous programming and strong connection to London’s independent nightlife ecosystem.
Stoker was also one half of production project ESS O ESS alongside Jamie Blanco, further expanding his influence across underground electronic music through collaborative studio work.
Outside music, he ran his own clothing brand Almost Cut My Hair, reflecting the same independent spirit and personal identity that shaped his creative work more broadly.
At the time of his death, Chris Stoker remained actively involved in music and was scheduled to appear at multiple festivals and club events across the summer, including Love International, Multi Multi and Another Thought.
For many people connected to London’s underground scene, Stoker represented more than simply a DJ or promoter.
He belonged to a generation of artists who helped sustain club culture through genuine community-building, independent organization and deep personal dedication to music outside commercial structures.
His influence lived as much through friendships, parties and local scenes as through releases or performances themselves.
News of his passing has already prompted an outpouring of tributes from artists, friends and collaborators across the electronic music community, many remembering him for his warmth, generosity and commitment to underground culture.
Chris Stoker leaves behind a lasting imprint on the communities and spaces he helped build throughout his career.
