The indie dance music scene mourns the loss of Andy Williams, the pioneering DJ, producer, and label founder known best by his moniker Yam Who?.
Emerging in the early 2000s from London’s underground club scene, Williams quickly became one of the most influential figures in modern disco, reshaping the genre with his unique blend of vintage soul, boogie, and modern electronic production.
From the outset, Yam Who? was synonymous with innovation. His early bootleg remixes, striking for their warmth and groove, set the foundation for a career that would see him collaborate with and inspire a new generation of producers and DJs. Through his acclaimed record labels, ISM Records, Midnight Riot, and Black Riot, Williams nurtured and amplified artists worldwide, bringing the sounds of disco, funk, and house to a new era of listeners.
Beyond his music, Williams contributed to the scene as the disco page editor for Mixmag, where he chronicled the evolution of the genre he loved so deeply. His work as one-half of Qwestlife, alongside Tom Laroye, further solidified his standing in the Glitterbox movement, bridging classic disco with modern dancefloor energy in a way that felt effortless yet masterful.
Williams wasn’t merely a producer or label head – he was a mentor, a tastemaker, and a unifying force in the disco and house community. His Midnight Riot label is a global movement, beloved for its celebratory, feel-good ethos. He was widely adored by friends and peers for his generosity, humor, and unwavering passion for music.
The indie dance community has been filled with tributes and outpourings of respect for Andy and his legacy. His influence will continue to echo through the basslines and shimmering synths of dance floors worldwide.
It will be some time before I can truly grasp the fact that Andy isn’t here anymore… His music, his vision, and his impact will never fade.
Rest in power, Andy Williams – forever spinning, forever dancing.
