Jia Lissa
Chris Stoker, a revered figure in London’s electronic music scene and co-founder of the influential Not An Animal record label, passed away on Thursday, May 7th, following a prolonged battle with a rare form of cancer. His death was publicly announced on Monday, May 11th, by his Not An Animal partner, Andy Bainbridge, via a heartfelt Instagram post that reverberated through the global music community. Stoker, known for his laconic wit, deep love for art, and profound impact on independent music and fashion, was 47.
The Announcement and Immediate Aftermath
Andy Bainbridge’s poignant announcement described Stoker’s passing as peaceful, underscoring the quiet dignity with which he confronted his illness. "We are profoundly sad to announce that our co-owner, Chris Stoker, passed away peacefully last Thursday [7th May]," Bainbridge wrote, revealing the private struggle Stoker had endured. "He never made a fuss about it, but he had been living with a rare form of cancer for several years." This revelation brought into sharp focus the courage and resilience Stoker exhibited while continuing to immerse himself in his twin passions of music and fashion, even in the face of significant health challenges.
The news prompted an immediate outpouring of tributes from across the music and fashion industries, reflecting the widespread respect and affection Stoker commanded. Social media platforms became a canvas for colleagues, collaborators, friends, and fans to share memories, express their condolences, and celebrate his unique spirit. Bainbridge’s tribute further illuminated Stoker’s character, describing him as "droll, dry-witted, with some cynicism and no shortage of sarcasm, yet underpinned by a deep love for his friends, family, and art." This sentiment was echoed by many who remembered Stoker’s distinct personality and unwavering dedication to his creative pursuits.
A Life in Music: From East London Parties to Global Recognition
Chris Stoker’s journey through the electronic music landscape was deeply intertwined with the vibrant, independent spirit of East London. His foundational work began with the Bad Passion Project parties, a series of events co-run with Andy Bainbridge and Dan Mitchell. These gatherings quickly established themselves as a cornerstone of London’s underground dance scene, celebrated for their eclectic musical selections, inclusive atmosphere, and dedication to authentic club culture. The Bad Passion Project was more than just a party series; it was a crucible where musical tastes converged and evolved, attracting a dedicated following and laying the groundwork for future ventures.
The success and distinctive ethos of the Bad Passion Project naturally led to the establishment of the Not An Animal label. Launched as an extension of their parties, the label provided a platform to release the sounds that defined their nights – a blend of cosmic disco, Balearic beats, house, and obscure global grooves. Over the years, Not An Animal cultivated a reputation for its discerning taste and commitment to quality, releasing over twenty records that resonated with DJs and music enthusiasts worldwide. Bainbridge fondly recalled their collaborative journey: "Somehow, we released over twenty records and DJ’d together all over the world." This global reach underscored the label’s impact and Stoker’s role in shaping its artistic direction and sound identity.
Stoker’s musical endeavors extended beyond Not An Animal. He was a key figure in the production project ESS O ESS, collaborating with Jamie Blanco, further demonstrating his versatility and creative drive in the studio. His presence was also felt keenly in London’s radio and club circuit, notably through his residencies at Soho Radio and the now-closed Hackney venue, The Gun. Soho Radio, an independent online station, provided Stoker with a vital platform to showcase his deep musical knowledge and curatorial skills, connecting with a broader audience who appreciated his eclectic selections. The Gun, a beloved institution in Hackney, was a testament to the thriving local scene that Stoker helped define, and its eventual closure due to rising costs highlighted the precarious nature of independent venues in London – a challenge Stoker consistently championed addressing. These residencies were not just gigs; they were expressions of his musical philosophy, offering spaces for exploration and community building.
Beyond the Decks: A Distinguished Career in Fashion
While music was a central pillar of Stoker’s life, his creative influence was equally significant in the fashion industry. This dual passion for music and fashion often intertwined, reflecting a holistic approach to aesthetics and culture. Before launching his own venture, Stoker held a prominent position as international sales manager at Folk Clothing. Folk, known for its understated design, quality craftsmanship, and thoughtful approach to everyday wear, provided Stoker with invaluable experience in the intricacies of the global fashion market, from product development to brand positioning and international distribution. His role at Folk allowed him to hone his business acumen while maintaining a connection to creative industries.
In 2018, Stoker channeled his vision into establishing his own clothing brand, Almost Cut My Hair. The brand quickly distinguished itself through its unique aesthetic and its deliberate integration with the music world. Almost Cut My Hair was not merely a clothing line; it was a cultural statement, frequently engaging in music-centric collaborations with artists and bands. A notable example was its collaboration with the acclaimed Houston-based band Khruangbin, demonstrating Stoker’s ability to bridge the gap between seemingly disparate creative fields and create synergistic projects that resonated with discerning audiences. This brand embodied Stoker’s personal style and his belief in the interconnectedness of art forms, becoming another testament to his creative ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit.
The Battle with Illness and Community Support
The announcement of Chris Stoker’s passing also shed light on his private struggle with a rare form of cancer, a battle he waged with characteristic resilience for several years. His diagnosis was brought to public attention in December of the previous year when friends and colleagues launched a GoFundMe campaign. The fundraiser aimed to support Stoker with the significant costs associated with his cancer and diabetes treatment, as well as to provide assistance for his family during this challenging period.
The GoFundMe campaign garnered substantial support from the global community, a clear indication of the profound respect and affection he had earned throughout his career. This collective effort highlighted the often-overlooked financial burdens faced by individuals battling serious illnesses, particularly within creative industries where access to comprehensive health benefits may not always be standard. The campaign not only provided tangible support but also served as a powerful testament to the strong bonds within the music and fashion communities, demonstrating how collective action can rally around one of their own in times of need. Despite the immense personal challenges, Stoker continued to dedicate himself to his passions, a testament to his unwavering spirit and his belief in the "healing power of a good time," a philosophy he often espoused.
Legacy and Tributes: A Lasting Impact
Chris Stoker’s passing leaves an indelible void in the worlds of electronic music and independent fashion, but his legacy will undoubtedly endure. His contributions to the Bad Passion Project, Not An Animal, ESS O ESS, and his residencies at Soho Radio and The Gun cemented his status as a tastemaker and an integral part of London’s cultural fabric. The records released by Not An Animal will continue to be cherished by DJs and collectors, serving as a sonic archive of his discerning ear and the label’s commitment to quality.
Beyond his professional achievements, Stoker will be remembered for his unique personality – his dry wit, cynicism, and sarcasm, all underpinned by a deep well of love for his friends, family, and art. His partner, Andy Bainbridge, encapsulated this sentiment perfectly, encouraging everyone to "go out, raise a glass, and celebrate Chris’s life. As he said, ‘Never underestimate the healing power of a good time.’" This call to celebrate his life, rather than merely mourn his loss, reflects the vibrant and life-affirming spirit that Stoker embodied.
Tributes from friends, peers, and colleagues consistently praised his integrity, his unwavering support for new talent, and his distinctive approach to curation, whether it was through music or fashion. He was seen as a mentor by some, an inspiration by many, and a true friend by those closest to him. The sheer volume and sincerity of the tributes underscore the breadth of his influence and the depth of the connections he forged throughout his life.
Broader Context: London’s Independent Scene
Chris Stoker’s career unfolded against the dynamic backdrop of London’s independent creative scenes. The city has long been a global hub for electronic music and avant-garde fashion, characterized by a robust ecosystem of independent labels, grassroots parties, and innovative designers. Figures like Stoker are crucial to the vitality of this ecosystem, acting as curators, tastemakers, and entrepreneurs who champion emerging sounds and styles, often operating outside mainstream commercial pressures.
The Bad Passion Project, for instance, emerged during a period of intense innovation in East London’s club culture, contributing to the area’s reputation as a fertile ground for experimental and underground music. The rise of independent record labels like Not An Animal is vital for diversifying the musical landscape, offering platforms for artists who might not fit into larger commercial frameworks. Similarly, independent fashion brands like Almost Cut My Hair represent a critical counterpoint to fast fashion, emphasizing thoughtful design, quality, and a narrative-driven approach to clothing.
Stoker’s ability to navigate and excel in both these demanding industries speaks volumes about his vision and entrepreneurial spirit. His work highlighted the symbiotic relationship between music and fashion, demonstrating how these art forms can enrich and inform each other. His passing serves as a stark reminder of the often-unseen struggles faced by independent artists and entrepreneurs, but also of the immense value they bring to global culture.
In conclusion, Chris Stoker was a multifaceted talent whose impact on London’s electronic music and independent fashion scenes was profound and far-reaching. His legacy is one of unwavering dedication to artistic integrity, a keen curatorial eye, and a spirit that persevered against immense personal challenges. As the community raises a glass to his memory, his influence will continue to resonate through the sounds he championed and the aesthetics he helped define, reminding us all of the enduring power of a good time and the lasting impact of a truly passionate creative soul.
