Emerging from Chicago in the mid-1980s, Deep House built on the foundations of classic House music with richer melodies, soulful vocals and a slower, more hypnotic groove. Its influence spread globally, shaping club culture from Ibiza to London, and remains one of the most enduring and versatile sounds in electronic music. DJ and selector ELLADHC has fast become a trusted voice for fans of club music.
As a tastemaker with radio slots everywhere from Foundation FM to Pound And Yam, and co-founder of club night Shindig, ELLADHC dives into the deep end of the House spectrum. As a result, she draws links between its underground roots and its influence on newer movements like Afro House and Amapiano.
We asked ELLADHC to take us on a journey through mixes and sets that showcase the many shades of Deep House. From festival anthems and club-ready rollers to intimate selections perfect for late-night listening. “Deep House honours history,” she tells us. “This sub genre of House is rooted in Soul, Funk and Jazz, bringing a warmer groove and deeper rhythm than traditional House does. It makes you feel good because ‘It’s like House, but deeper.’”
Supa D | Pioneer | The Originals Festival 25.07.2021 | ColdSteps & Gemini
2021’s The Originals Festival played host to an incredible set by DJs Supa D and Pioneer. Among the Deep House vibrations was also Afro House, Tribal House, Amapiano and a bit of Funky for good measure. If this mix shows anything, it’s how much Deep House has influenced the sub-genres that came after it, each retaining the gracious dance elements of the sound in new and inventive ways.
This is a set perfect for some daytime vibes, or even or a soundtrack to getting ready for your big night out. And with live instrumentation to boot? The Originals thought of everything! “This is a feel-good set packed with high energy and soulful vibes,” ELLADHC says. “It contains staple anthems, alongside a live band blending UK Funky and Deep House.”
Ronald Vasquez on 4TheMusic
Radio station 4TheMusic has built an undeniable home for all things House music. Showcasing veteran DJs as well as newcomers, every base of the genre is covered on a daily basis. Getting into his Deep House bag, resident DJ Ronald Vásquez takes us through an hour of Deep House heaven. The result is some real four to the floor greatness that never runs out of steam and keeps you on your feet. Just when you thought you’d heard it all, Vásquez surprises you with some Afro House flavours to keep you guessing. ELLADHC describes this mix as delivering “smooth and percussive rhythms blending Deep House, Afro House, and Classic House.”
The Martinez Brothers – Traktor Ibiza Sessions – 15.10.2012
These days, The Martinez Brothers are some of the most sought after names in the DJ circuit. They’ve shut down shows from Milan to Miami. Their residency at one of the world’s premier nightclubs, Hï Ibiza, keeps them sharp and ready to slay on the decks at a moment’s notice. But back in 2012, the brothers were aspiring DJs paying homage to Deep House, as exemplified in this mix.
They effortlessly guide through some industrial, sometimes wonky, sounds and bouncy numbers for this thumping 55-minute blend. A great insight into the growth of two of the biggest DJs around right now. ELLADHC calls the brothers “legendary selectors, bringing proper Ibiza vibes!! This is a must have mix for anyone wanting to vibe out to their signature sounds.”
Play 12: Groove Armada’s Summer Rooftop Mix
Celebrated dance duo Groove Armada have been filling dancefloors for years at this point. With hits like ‘Superstylin’ and ‘I See You Baby,’ they’ve made a steady career of creating euphoric musical moments. That’s exactly what they did in 2014 for Malibu Play, cranking up the heat for the alcohol brand’s summer party. The mix features some of the biggest tunes from that summer including tracks and remixes from Kiesza, Duke Dumont, Pharrell, Disclosure, Julio Bashmore and Gorgon City. ELLADHC calls this set “effortlessly laid back, yet groove driven. Very smooth and perfect for a chilled summer.” So, soak in the last days of the season with this banger!
Continental GT B2B DJ Hitty
Back in the days of lockdown when we were all trying to find something to do, Continental GT kept many entertained with his Instagram Live mixes. He became one of the unsung heroes of that period, while also educating us on some modern Deep House vibes. Here, he goes head to head with DJ Hitty for a Halloween special. Halloween never sounded so good. “This mix features one of my favourite producers in an Instagram live session mix delivering flawlessly smooth blends,” says ELLADHC. “This pairing is the greatest combination since cheese and toast!”