For those who don't know Frankie Knuckles, let me introduce him to you. To listen to Frankie is to get an education in house music. And not just house music, but all music. House music is a convergence of a multitude of musical streams all joining together to form a mighty river of upbeat joy. House can also have its melancholy moments; it's not afraid to be real and canvass the great array of human emotions. But most of all its roots are positive and uplifting, and this is what you hear in Frankie Knuckles songs and remixes.

FK is the Godfather of house music, and he wasn't afraid to put God into his music. He himself said, "God has a place on the dance floor." When you study his music (and it's worthy of study) you'll find a dominant note of Gospel and faith. He wasn't afraid to shine the light in the darkest of clubs and to get us thinking about higher things.

Frankie not only uplifted people through his music, he inspired them through his life. Known for his effervescent smile, he would often personally hug every attendee at an event. He kept music personal. Even though he was the spearhead of house, he never acted like a rock star. He lived humbly. He valued people. And he sought to make a difference. He knew that making a difference meant getting his ego out of the way. One of his last remixed songs powerfully proclaimed, "We can heal the world!"

This mix is a celebration of Frankie's music, music that keeps his legacy alive. Through it I hope you enter into the world of Frankie and see why so many people are mourning his loss. At 59, he died too young. But I doubt FK would want us to be sad for long; instead he would spur us to keep dancing.

by DJ SOL Vibes

Playlist:
Lisa Stansfield - "Change (Frankie Knuckles Remix)"
FrankieKnuckles - "TheWhistleSong"
Frankie Knuckles & Director's Cut - "The Whistle Song
Director's Cut & Frankie Knuckles - "Your Love (Frankie...
The Shapeshifters - "Back to Basics (Director's Cut Signature)
Hardsoul feat. Ron Carroll - Back Together (Director's Cut)
Spencer Parker, Dan Beaumont - "The Look (Director's Cut
Candi Staton - "Hallelujah Anyway (Director's Cut Signature)
Richard Earnshaw feat. Jocelyn Brown - "Worthy (Director's Cut)
Peyton, Frankie Knuckles, Eric Kupper, Director's Cut -...
Frankie Knuckles & Adeva - "Walkin'"
Lil' Louis - "Fable (Director's Cut Classic Club Mix)"
The Layabouts, Portia Monique - "Bring Me Joy (Director's Cut)
House For The Homeless - "We Can Heal (A Director's Cut)
Frankie Knuckles - "Soon I Will Be Done"