John Juan Mendez Obituary News: American techno DJ and music producer “Silent Servant” passed away
The late John Juan Mendez, also known as Silent Servant, was a producer and DJ from Los Angeles.
John Mendez, a LA native who has been involved in electronic music for more than 30 years, is most renowned for being a part of the groundbreaking techno group Sandwell District, which also includes Regis, Female, and Function.
Mendez’s administration, Triangle Agency, confirmed the details in an email sent earlier today, January 19. The cause of death was not disclosed, however it is believed that Mendez’s partner Simone Ling and darkwave artist Luis Vasquez, better known as The Soft Moon, died in the same incident.
Mendez, Regis, and James Ruskin founded the Jealous God label following the dissolution of Sandwell District in 2011, releasing songs by artists such as Varg, Phase Fatale, and Black Merlin.
Labels including Hospital Productions, BITE, and Cititrax released Mendez’s own music. November EP In Memoriam, which was released through Tresor, was his last solo album. Earlier this week, a new compilation from Sandwell District was also announced: WHERE NEXT?
Mendez was a frequent DJ at some of the top techno venues in the world, such as Berghain, Tresor, Bassiani, and KHIDI. He had an engagement in Phoenix, Arizona, this evening.
In addition, Mendez loved industrial, minimal synth, and new wave music, which he frequently featured on his monthly NTS Radio show. Outside of electronic music, he had worked as a photographer and art director for many years.
He was an amazing artist and incredibly great person.