Jackmaster

Jack Revill, widely recognized by his stage name Jackmaster, is a Scottish DJ and curator of forward-thinking electronic music hailing from Glasgow. Born and raised in a city with a rich dance music heritage, Jackmaster developed his passion for music early on—immersing himself in the diverse sounds that emanated from local record shops like Rubadub and the legendary Sub Club. Over time, he refined his craft through countless hours of crate-digging, amassing a personal library of tunes that spanned classic house, techno, disco, electro, hip-hop, and everything in between. This kaleidoscopic appreciation for multiple genres would become a defining characteristic of his performances.

Jackmaster first gained prominence in the mid-2000s as a co-founder of the Glasgow-based label and party collective Numbers, which was formed through the merger of several smaller imprints (Wireblock, Dress 2 Sweat, and Stuffrecords). The Numbers collective quickly became an influential force in the UK and global underground scenes, hosting both cutting-edge releases and unforgettable club nights. Under the Numbers banner, Jackmaster championed inventive producers whose sounds often fused genres in unexpected ways—an ethos clearly reflected in his own DJ sets. Whether it was early dubstep cuts, stripped-down techno, experimental electro, or overlooked disco gems, he welcomed all corners of the musical spectrum.

On the decks, Jackmaster's style is famously characterized by swift, seamless transitions and a keen sense for reading the room. He has been known to drop obscure, long-lost vinyl next to contemporary hits, weaving these elements together into an energetic, unpredictable journey for the dance floor. His sets might include raw Chicago house riffs alongside the gritty edges of Detroit techno, layered with bursts of 1980s funk or shimmering disco classics. This open-format approach has endeared him to fans across the globe, as well as to his peers in the industry, who laud him for keeping dance music fresh and exciting.

Beyond his club appearances, Jackmaster's presence extends to festival stages and online radio platforms. He has performed at iconic events such as Sonar, Dekmantel, Coachella, and Glastonbury, often earning standout reviews for his ability to bridge underground authenticity with wide-reaching appeal. His residencies at renowned venues—particularly the Sub Club—have further cemented his standing as a Glasgow icon. Radio mixes and podcasts from Jackmaster frequently circle the internet, garnering admiration for their genre-fluid spirit, while showcasing a dedication to championing underground talent as much as established acts.

Jackmaster has also been recognized through numerous accolades, including high placings in DJ polls and awards for his contributions to club culture. His success is often attributed to his refusal to be pigeonholed. Rather than settling into one scene or style, he deftly navigates a broad musical universe, demonstrating a willingness to experiment without losing sight of dance-floor energy. The spontaneous flair of his sets—sprinkled with the occasional curveball track—often leads to memorable moments that spark conversations long after the night ends.

As with many high-profile figures in the music industry, Jackmaster's career has not been without personal and professional challenges. He has openly acknowledged mistakes and setbacks, displaying a readiness to learn from them and drive positive change in the industry. In recent years, he has placed emphasis on reflecting on issues of accountability and inclusivity within club culture. His efforts reflect a commitment to not only entertain but to foster a healthier, more respectful environment for music lovers, colleagues, and the communities that support electronic music around the world.

Despite his widespread acclaim, Jackmaster's career faced a serious challenge in 2018, when he was involved in multiple instances of sexual assault at the Love Saves The Day Festival in Bristol. He privately apologized to those affected and later disclosed that he was under the influence of GHB at the time, although he made clear that substance abuse did not excuse his actions. Striving to learn from his mistakes, he continued advocating for accountability and inclusivity within the music community.

Tragically, on October 12, 2024, Jackmaster died at age 38 in Ibiza, following complications from a head injury sustained in the early hours of the morning. News of his passing was met with an outpouring of tributes from across the electronic music scene—friends, collaborators, and fans all remembered him for his unparalleled ability to fuse genres, champion emerging talent, and bring electrifying energy to every set he played. While his life and career were cut short, Jackmaster's enduring influence on dance culture—through his restless creativity, adventurous music selections, and genuine love for the art of DJing—remains firmly imprinted on the global electronic music landscape.