MOPHONO

Mophono (a.k.a. DJ Centipede)
In a city celebrated for its musical innovation, Mophono stands alone as the Bay Area’s most influential and forward-thinking musician. A master of machines and pioneer of sound, Mophono has redefined electronic music, merging technical mastery with raw creativity to inspire a new generation of artists and listeners alike.

Born in the Bay Area and driven by early passions for science, math, and music, Mophono charted a unique path. His mission: to shatter the myth that electronic music is exclusive or inaccessible, and elevate it to a universal art form—equally sophisticated and visceral. To achieve this, he founded Circuit Studios in San Francisco’s Lower Haight, birthing two revolutionary genres, Thug Jazz and Dirt Wave, and launching a movement that continues to ripple through the global music scene.

Throughout the 1990s, Mophono dominated the underground rave scene as a DJ whose electrifying sets became the stuff of legend. A pivotal moment in 1998—when a packed Oakland dance floor collapsed mid-set—signaled the end of one era and the beginning of another. Undeterred, Mophono turned his attention to the Bay Area’s burgeoning beat scene, perfecting his craft as a producer, innovator, and tastemaker.

With an unparalleled ability to transform chaos into harmony, Mophono has released groundbreaking records that have reshaped the possibilities of sound. His creation of the Skip on Beat standard has revolutionized the record industry, while his destructive drum breaks and cinematic compositions have set him apart as a true original. His artistry draws deeply from ’60s psychedelia, experimental electronic pioneers, and the gritty soul of classic drum breaks, making his music both timeless and cutting-edge.

But Mophono’s impact isn’t limited to his studio work. As the creator of San Francisco’s iconic “Change the Beat”party, he has cultivated one of the most dynamic and innovative music communities in the world. His live performances, featuring drum machines, Moogs, and Skip on Beat techniques, are immersive experiences that leave audiences in awe. Sharing stages with legends like Amon Tobin, Edan, DJ Food, DJ Krush, Dabrye, Diplo, De La Soul, and Jungle Brothers, Mophono has cemented his reputation as a live music visionary.

Beyond performing, Mophono’s contributions extend to the very fabric of modern music. He has collaborated with icons such as Egyptian Lover, DJ Shadow, Flying Lotus, Q-Bert, Cut Chemist, remixed tracks by Funkadelic and Tony Allen, and inspired countless musicians with his relentless creativity.

Mophono isn’t just a musician; he’s a force of nature, a cultural cornerstone, and the driving pulse of the Bay Area’s music scene. With every record, remix, and live set, he continues to prove why he’s the most valuable artist the region has ever produced—an innovator whose influence will resonate for generations.

B&W Photo by Ricky Powell