16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Scots DJ & radio host dies after brave cancer battle as tributes paid to ‘absolute warrior'
He had shared his cancer journey openly to raise awareness and inspire others
'SLEEP TIGHT' Scots DJ & radio host dies after brave cancer battle as tributes paid to 'absolute warrior'
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TRIBUTES have flooded in for an "absolute legend" Scots music producer who died following a cancer battle.
Derek Baird, a Glasgow music producer, tragically passed away in his sleep on Wednesday after battling facial cancer for several years.
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Derek Baird passed away after sharing his public battle with cancer
Credit: Facebook / STREETrave
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He DJ'ed huge events with the support of promoters STREETRave
Credit: Facebook / STREETrave
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He had been receiving care in the Marie Curie Hospice - and was still raising awareness in his final days
Credit: Facebook / STREETrave
The beloved DJ, who was receiving care at the Marie Curie Hospice, bravely shared his journey online while managing his clothing brand, Chasing the Phase, right up until his final weeks.
Derek's talent and passion for music saw him perform at major events such as Ayr's Pavilion Festival, STREETrave's Summer All-Dayer at Glasgow's SWG3, and even sessions in Ibiza.
In a heartfelt post, music promoters STREETrave announced the devastating news of Derek's passing, describing their "good friend" as a "brave, brave man" and "an inspiration to us all."
It read: "As many of you know - our good friend Derek Baird passed away yesterday.
"What this guy went through was unimaginable but yet he didn't hide away and he fought it head on!!
"He played Pavilion Festival, the Sr Summer all dayer and played Ibiza for us last year - what a brave, brave man - an inspiration to us all - our thoughts and prayers go out to his loving wife Linda & daughter Lauren and the rest of his friends and family.
"RIP our good friend & sleep tight - Chasing the Phase!!"
And his family announced Derek's passing on his Facebook page, describing the dad as an "amazing spirit."
They said: "Sadly, our wee Del passed peacefully in his sleep today.
"Everyone who had the pleasure of meeting Derek will know how special he is, although he is no longer with us his amazing spirit with live with us all forever.
Huge dance star shares his incredible journey with fans amid world tour
"The family would like to thank everyone who has supported Derek throughout his inspiring journey.
"We are heartbroken but so proud of the courage, strength and positivity Derek displayed during such challenging times. Rest in peace our darling Derek."
Friends and family flocked to social media to remember the DJ described as an "absolute warrior."
One pal wrote: "You will never be forgotten my friend what a gentleman you were, thoughts with your family Derek pal."
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STREETRave displayed a banner for Derek at this year's Pavilion festival
Credit: Facebook / STREETrave
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His love of music saw Derek perform sessions in Ibiza
Credit: Facebook / STREETrave
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Promoters said Derek "didn't hide away" as he fought cancer head on
Credit: Facebook / STREETrave
Another said: "Very inspirational man! Makes you appreciate what you have. RIP and condolences."
A third commented: "So sad.
"What a loss to the dance community. He will be spinning upstairs with the big man."
A fourth added: "Absolute warrior. Sending much love to his family and friends."
And fellow DJ Danny Rampling said: "So sorry for your loss."
