Renowned for his exceptional turntable mastery, DJ Roc Raida rose to prominence in the mid-90s, captivating audiences around the world with his electrifying routines. In 1995, he claimed the prestigious DMC World DJ Championship title, solidifying his place among the greatest turntablists in history. Just four years later, in recognition of his influence and groundbreaking contributions to the DJ community, he was inducted into the DMC Hall of Fame in 1999.
As a founding member of the trailblazing DJ collective the Xecutioners, Roc Raida helped reshape the sound of Hip Hop through three critically acclaimed albums that showcased the art of the battle DJ in a studio format. His production skills extended beyond the turntables, collaborating with major artists like Smif-N-Wessun, Big Pun, and Busta Rhymes, with whom he toured extensively as a live DJ. His unique ability to blend technical precision with raw creativity made him one of the most respected figures in the culture.
Tragically, in 2009, Anthony Williams—known to the world as Roc Raida—passed away from injuries sustained during a mixed martial arts training accident. His untimely death left a deep void in the Hip Hop community, but his legacy lives on through the generations of DJs and artists he influenced.
Roc Raida was more than just a champion behind the decks—he was a pioneer whose artistry and passion helped elevate the DJ to center stage in Hip Hop. He will forever be remembered as a legend and missed by all who cherished his contributions to the culture.