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Detroit house producer Aaron-Carl dies at 37

September 30, 2010
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Aaron-Carl Ragland, a genre-bending electronic music producer and singer, died Thursday from complications of lymphoma, only days after being diagnosed with the disease. Ragland turned 37 in August and has been producing and performing since the mid-1990s.

Ragland was scheduled to begin a European tour this month. The tour was canceled when he was hospitalized with pains in his abdomen and right kidney. After a series of tests, doctors found cancer cells in the network of vessels that make up the lymphatic system, a part of the body’s immune system.

Aaron-Carl was one of Detroit’s most engaging performers and dedicated to the mission of bringing house, techno and electro communities together. He recently launched a group called W.A.R.M.T.H. — which stands for “we are revolutionizing the movement of techno and house.” It now becomes his legacy, important work that needs to to be continued by others.

We are preparing a column to remember Aaron-Carl and honor his life and contributions. Many more thoughts on this innovative Detroit musical figure to come. How very sad. He will be missed.

  • jenniekay

    He was an incredible artist, father, brother, and friend. He will be greatly missed, and has left a true legacy of acceptance and love that will echo for generations.

  • Jonathan C

    So sad. Prayers go to the family

  • Mel

    Walter,

    Aaron loved your writings and the time you took out of your busiy schedule to speak with him and support his events and cause. I love everything you have ever written. He will continue to live on with his legacy, I have already seen to that. The world lost him as an artist, I lost him as my partner in life.
    Mel Winders

  • Andrew Ives

    he was like the brother I never had,
    and will always be remembered in my family

  • Michelle Weeks

    Mel,
    You already know as AC’s BFF I’m here for you and the boys. And we will continue to realize his dreams for WARMTH and Wallshaker. He WILL live on in our hearts and minds. I will see to that and we will do it together. Love ya.

  • Adjus777

    LIke Andy says he was like a brother to many! He was a great guy, dedicated music man and a fantastic human being! HE will be missed but I will help others keep his memory alive through warmth and all the work we spoke about realizing some day. I am not going to stop now, now I am more motivated than ever to show like Aaron said there is no reason we all can’t do this with love and unity! Rest in Peace! I will always miss your laughter! Much love!

  • Chyll

    Aaron and I met in 2005. We clicked and immediately became good friends. I disappeared off of the scene for a couple of years. When I came back around, he readily accepted me with no questions asked. THAT was the mark of a TRUE FRIEND. We had some wonderful times together and he introduced me to the love of my life, to which I will always be in his debt. Much love to Mel and his family, we will be here for you all.

  • Chyll

    Also, W.A.R.M.T.H. WILL NEVER DIE, WE PROMISE!

  • Joe Williams

    Hey mel This Is Joe I deleted you number and I need you to give me a call same number with all the 9s lol