Distance (real name Greg Sanders) was born in Leicester, England in 1980. At an early age, he developed a passion for electronic dance music, particularly the pioneering sounds of the 1990s, which blended elements of techno, house, and acid with heavy basslines and breakbeats. As a teenager, Sanders started producing his own tracks and DJing at local clubs, honing his skills and developing his unique style.
After moving to London in the early 2000s, Sanders began sharing his music online and collaborating with other producers in the nascent dubstep scene. Dubstep was a subgenre of electronic dance music that originated in South London in the early 2000s, fusing elements of grime, garage, and dub into a dark, bass-heavy sound that quickly gained a following in the UK and beyond.
In 2007, Distance released his debut single, “My Demons,” on the label Chestplate, which he co-founded with fellow dubstep producer Cyrus. The track was an instant classic, featuring an eerie, hypnotic melody, cascading basslines, and haunting vocals that captured the mood of the emerging dubstep scene. The track was later remixed by fellow producers Skream and Benga, and became a staple of club sets and radio shows.
Over the next decade, Distance continued to produce and release music on Chestplate, as well as other labels such as Tectonic and Rinse. His style evolved and expanded, incorporating elements of techno, drum and bass, and experimental electronics, while retaining his trademark bass-heavy sound and dark, brooding atmospheres.
Distance’s DJ sets have also gained a reputation for their energy, creativity, and eclectic selections. He has played at some of the world’s most prestigious venues and festivals, including Glastonbury, Sonar, and Outlook, and has shared stages with legends of the electronic dance music world, such as Aphex Twin, Richie Hawtin, and Carl Cox.
In addition to his production and DJ work, Distance has also been active in mentoring and promoting new talent in the dubstep scene. He has hosted radio shows, organized events, and collaborated with emerging producers and DJs, helping to shape the sound and direction of the genre.
Despite his success and influence, Distance has remained humble and grounded, focused on pushing the boundaries of his music and inspiring others to do the same. In a recent interview, he reflected on his journey as a musician and his vision for the future:
“Music is an infinite universe, and there’s always more to explore and discover. I’ve been fortunate to be part of this incredible scene and to connect with so many amazing people around the world. My goal is to keep pushing myself and others to keep evolving, to keep experimenting, and to keep connecting with each other through the music.”
Distance’s impact on the dubstep scene and electronic dance music more broadly cannot be overstated. His innovative production style, creative DJ sets, and commitment to his craft have inspired countless others, and helped to shape the sound of a generation of music lovers. As he continues to push the boundaries of his art, we can only imagine what new heights he will reach, and what new worlds he will discover.