i’m reluctant to call this a tribute or obituary for detroit music pioneer amp fiddler, given he passed back in december 2023 and this post is pretty random and something i don’t do that often. but, as someone who is pretty obsessed with his music and have been for the last few years, i thought i’d share some deeper cuts you wouldn’t find on streaming services, and celebrate his deep and rich artistic legacy. having helped j dilla learn how to use the mpc and having his home back in the day as a studio and space for artists to come together, jam and experiment with new sounds, amp was a light for so many people in detroit at the time, and for aspiring producers growing up in that late 90s, early 00s era. and as for amp’s contributions to music, well… he’s made some of the best music i have ever listened to. that’s no exaggeration. seeing moodyman and black mahogany music give an incredible tribute to amp’s music at we out here festival last year was one of the most incredible educational and spiritual musical experiences i’ve had in years, and have become obsessed with his discography. naturally, streaming has been the easiest way to discover all of his music, but there are some deep cuts you’ll only be able to find on wax or perhaps youtube. so, i’ll share some of my favourite amp fiddler joints for you all to immerse yourselves in and, i hope, feel deep joy and energy from.
love and war (version) (2003)
genuinely one of the most groovy, hypnotic and soulful cuts he’s ever made. pure euphoria. discogs
only child – u bring me vibes ft amp fiddler (2003)
technically on streaming, but this is an expended cut that sounds even like the grooviest and funkest thing you’ve ever listened to. the amount of times i’ve played this on repeat. discogs
amp fiddler – superficial (jan mix) (2002)
the bassline that comes in and the energy of this track is so sexy and sensual i just wanna rip someones clothes off and get all slutty to this track my god. discogs
amp fiddler – possibilities (ron trent vocal mix) (2003)
possibilities is a classic amp track, but this vocal mix from ron trent is just incredible and so groovy from start to finish. the keys throughout are angelic, the groove is infectious, a stunning record from start to finish. discogs
amp fiddler – mornin gu nostalgic forever mix (2014)
this is some funky, groovy shit. a mix from glenn underground’s gu edits #1 2-track single is colourful and infectious from start to finish. the drumming and rhythms, as well as the gorgeous wind instrumentation makes this such a banger. discogs
amp fiddler – i’m doing fine (2002)
you’ve likely heard moodyman’s version on black mahogani but this version is more stripped back and adventurous, with its incredible immersive synth leads and and emphasis on live drumming that makes this such a catchy, dreamy cut. discogs
amp fiddler – stay or move on (alton miller mix) (2008)
house legend alton miller remixes an amp fiddler classic and it’s got some heavy, heavy grooves and melodies throughout. discogs
only child – find a way ft amp fiddler (yam who remix) (2003)
yam who’s remix of this only child classic is infectious, as amp fiddler’s soulful vocals complement the funky and incredibly heavy drums and grooves. discogs
and here’s a youtube playlist of all the tracks.
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