We Are Deadbeats
Zeds Dead Returns to Radius Chicago
The Artist: Zeds Dead
Toronto’s own Dylan Mamid (DC) and Zachary Rapp-Rovan (Hooks) have been the gold standard of genre-defying bass music for over a decade. Long before they were headlining stadiums, they were a hip-hop production duo called "Mass Appeal." That foundational love for groove and sampling is exactly what gives Zeds Dead their soul.
From their legendary 2010 remix of Blue Foundation’s "Eyes on Fire" to the launch of their massive Deadbeats label, the duo has consistently stayed ahead of the curve. Whether they are dropping earth-shattering dubstep, soulful house, or grimey hip-hop, a Zeds Dead set is a masterclass in musical storytelling.
Interesting Facts:
- The name "Zeds Dead" is a direct quote from the 1994 film Pulp Fiction.
- They are known for their "Coffee, Beers, and Beats" series, showcasing their more laid-back, instrumental hip-hop side.
- DC and Hooks have been friends and collaborators since the early 2000s, long before the EDM explosion.
The Venue: Radius Chicago
Radius is not just a club; it’s an industrial temple of sound. With 55,000 square feet of space and a world-class L-Acoustics K2 system, it is the only venue in Chicago capable of containing the raw power of a Deadbeats takeover.
The Sound Sweet Spot
For the best acoustic experience, stand about 20 feet in front of the sound booth (the "front of house"). This is where the mix is calibrated for maximum clarity and sub-bass impact.
Bypass the Bottleneck
The main bar near the entrance always gets swamped. Head deeper into the venue—there are bars on the far left and right sides of the stage that usually have significantly shorter wait times.
Industrial Comfort
Radius features a sophisticated HVAC system. Unlike many older Chicago warehouses, the airflow here is excellent, keeping the crowd relatively cool even during high-energy bass sets.
Upcoming 2026 Tour Dates
Following their Chicago stop, the Deadbeats bus continues its journey across North America:
| APR 22 | The Armory - Minneapolis, MN |
| APR 24 | The Sylvee - Madison, WI |
| MAY 02 | Deadbeats Backyard Jamboree - Boca Raton, FL |
| MAY 15 | Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) - Las Vegas, NV |
| JUL 02 | Deadrocks XII (Night 1) - Morrison, CO |
Support lineup TBA - Expect Deadbeats heavyweights
