Dean Fuel
Dean FUEL is undoubtedly one of Cape Town’s most prolific and in demand deck masters.
A solid reputation and loyal following has put him at the forefront of the South African dance scene, spinning alongside global legends such as David Guetta, Erick Morillo, Basement Jaxx, Mylo, Audio Bullies, Deep Dish, John Digweed, Infected Mushroom, Tiesto, Paul van Dyk, Ferry Corsten, James Lavelle, Martin Solveig, Kaskade, Sonique, James Zabiela, The Freestylers and even Jamiroquai! Dean also features on all major international tours of South Africa, such as Ministry of Sound, Hed Kandi, Pacha, Gatecrasher, Renaissance and Global Underground. One of the hardest working players in the dance scene today – the FUEL has already sparked interest overseas!
Dean FUEL’s distinctive musical style is versatile, and uniquely his own – fusing an intercontinental blend of minimal, funk, tech, electro and progressive – the FUEL adds that something special, igniting all dance floors and keeping them burning with his passion and infectious energy delivered through the turntables – all attitude. The perfectionist within him ensures he continuously hones his skills with many hours spent laboring in his studio, always looking for new and innovative ways to push the boundaries of his craft.
This dedication has been tried and tested on numerous dancefloors all over the country, securing an ever-growing fan-base of loyal partygoers – FUEL’s reputation and appeal continue to grow.
Born into a family where music was not only a passion but a way of life, Dean took to the world of music from an early age. Drawing on a diverse musical background, driven by inspirational live-sets from the greats Carl Cox, Sasha & Digweed, and Jeff Mills – he nurtured an overwhelming desire to be a DJ.
Taking his natural flair for mixing, he honed his abilities as a creative DJ and producer – supported by a truly formidable record collection, and a studio full of hi-tech hardware and gadgets.
His raw talent, undeniable passion and charismatic energy have earned FUEL residencies at many of the country’s top clubs, among them Cape Town’s Rhodes House, Caprice, The Fez, Jet Lounge, Sutra, Opium, Bambu, and now Karma. Nationwide demand has meant that Fuel has not limited himself to his adoptive city. A hectic touring schedule sees him spinning regularly all over South Africa, from the Panama Room in Durban, through to 52 in PE, Numbers in East London, and just about everywhere in Johannesburg – including Sudada, Aruba Lounge, Sutra, The Palms, Taboo, Truth and Natural Groove.
FUEL’s edge also comes from his skills at creating his own music. Recent accomplishments include having released the ‘Opium’ (2006) Album to high regard, as well as featuring numerous tracks and collaborations produced by the man himself on prominent dance compilations. Most recently “Trippin’ Out” (with Sentrafuge) was featured on the hugely successful ‘House Anthems 4’ (2007) album, and became the leading track for the recent ‘Kiss FM’ album.
Another collaboration track, ‘Sexy Hippie’ (with Metcalfe) has been signed to Danish progressive label, IBOGA Records, and features on their critically acclaimed ‘Set 7: Declivity’ compilation, thus marking the beginning of an international career for this talented up and coming producer.