DJ Casper, Creator Of "Cha Cha Slide," Passes Away At 58

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He was diagnosed with cancer in 2016.

It is with a heavy heart to announce the passing of DJ Casper. He battled with kidney and liver cancer for roughly seven years, dying at the age of 58. Additionally, Casper had overcome other health problems such as a brain aneurysm aged 22 and eye surgery for detached retinas. Furthermore, he announced in 2019 that his cancer was subsiding, unfortunately though, it later returned.

Born and raised Willie Perry Jr in Chicago, Illinois, he created "Cha Cha Slide" in 1998. Many may not know, his original intention for the song was to be a musical exercise routine for his nephew, who was a personal trainer. It is fair to say that Casper did not see the cultural appeal because It eventually began to gain popularity in Chicago. The song went through various stages as it was signed locally and then by a major label, which allowed it to reach the international stage.

DJ Casper Is More Than One Song

With its simple but effective line-dancing routine that always got people on their feet to join in, it was released as Mr C the Slide Man's song. Furthermore, it became a must-have at weddings, children’s parties, sporting events and so much more. In a recent interview, DJ Casper told Chicago’s ABC7 news channel gave an inspirational talk to the viewers about fighting cancer and staying strong. “Anybody that’s going through cancer, know that you have cancer and cancer does not have you.” Even though he garnered attention for this ultra-viral song, his message hopefully will carry on his spirit.

The community at HNHH is sending all of our prayers and thoughts to DJ Casper's family and friends during this difficult time. His legacy in the music industry will always be remembered by the world. However, who he was as a person will be the biggest reason for his loss. Please be respectful with your thoughts in the comments section below. Additionally, keep in touch with HNHH for the latest around the music world.

About The Author
Zachary Horvath is one of the Music Freelance News Writers at HotNewHipHop and has held that title since August 2023. Prior to this position, he held another freelance gig covering local high school football, girls and boys varsity basketball, in addition to recapping Cleveland Cavaliers games remotely. He's taken the previous experience and used it to become a jack of all trades at HotNewHipHop. Zach has thoroughly enjoyed tackling some of the trending topics in sports, with a larger focus on hip-hop and pop culture. Some of those include Bronny James's draft stock, a multitude of angles swirling around the Drake and Kendrick Lamar beef, as well as Diddy's arrest and lawsuits. Separate from the headlines that everyone wants to hear about, he was fortunate enough to help spread Zaytoven's current thoughts at the time around mid-December in 2023. Even though being able to give his expertise on these stories is fulfilling, being able to share his passion for releases trumps that ever so slightly. Having the chance to express his excitement indirectly about what he thinks our readers should be checking out/revisiting grows his passion for writing that much more.
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