Defected Records shares never-before-heard Frankie Knuckles mix to celebrate late DJ’s birthday

Lost for years, Frankie Knuckles’ unreleased mix is finally here as Defected Records celebrates the house pioneer’s birthday.

Defected Records is honoring Frankie Knuckles with the release of a previously unheard mix from the late house music pioneer. The two-plus-hour mix, Frankie Knuckles In The House, arrives January 16th via Apple Music, timed perfectly around what would have been his birthday on January 18th.

Frankie Knuckles is often referred to as one of the architects of house music, a genre that grew out of Chicago clubs in the 1980s before spreading worldwide. Defected, a London-based house label with deep roots, has continued to play a role in preserving and sharing his work with new generations of listeners.

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The mix was originally compiled and recorded by Knuckles himself in 2011 and was intended for Defected’s In The House series. At the time, health issues limited his ability to fully support the release, and the project was paused.

More than a decade later, it’s finally being shared in full. Alongside the mix, Defected has also brought back House Masters: Frankie Knuckles on vinyl following renewed demand. The vinyl format feels especially fitting, tying his legacy back to the physical roots of DJ culture.

The timing of the release also ties into Defected’s ongoing partnership with the Frankie Knuckles Foundation. Established to honor his memory, the foundation supports education, advocacy, and community-based initiatives, with a focus on LGBTQIA+ communities and HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention.

This release offers both longtime fans and newcomers a chance to experience Frankie Knuckles’ work as he intended. Frankie’s influence can still be felt across the modern dance music, even for listeners who may not immediately recognize his name. This Defected release stands as both a celebration of his birthday and a reminder of the cultural impact his legacy created.

About The Author

Alejandra Benitez

My name is Alejandra Benitez and I was born and raised in the DMV. Having close proximity to Washington D.C. means I am accustomed to a fast paced environment as things are constantly changing. For me, the EDM scene has provided so much comfort and space to really find myself even amongst chaos. My first ever show was Zeds Dead and it truly changed my outlook on community and further affirmed my love for music. I am a basshead at heart but enjoy exploring new genres and artists. Being a writer for Exron has given me an amazing opportunity to learn more about the electronic music industry and I love being able to express myself creatively. Some of my favorite artists include Levity, Rezz, Tape B, Disco Lines, and Sub Focus.

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