News Watch a new six-part documentary series on the life and career of the late DJ Mehdi

A new six-part documentary series tracing the life and career of the late DJ Mehdi has been released via Arte.

Written and directed by Thibaut de Longeville, DJ Mehdi: Made In France tells the story of how a young Parisian became one of the most influential electronic musicians of his generation, collaborating with the likes of Cassius, Justice, Riton, and MC Solaar – all of whom participated in the creation of the series.

Born Mehdi Favéris-Essadi, the talented artist started out in the French rap scene, producing for Kery James, 113, African Mafia and Booba. He subsequently moved into the world of electronic music at the time when French touch was taking off. Bringing his background in hip hop with him, the self-taught composer fused the two genres together to form his signature production style.

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A close friend of the Ed Banger records founder Busy P, DJ Mehdi released much of his music via the imprint. His most famous tracks included ‘Signature’, ‘Lucky Boy’ and ‘Pocket Piano’.

The much-loved producer passed away in a tragic accident in 2011. He was only 34 at the time.

In the notes to the series, the artistic director said: “DJ Mehdi, a witness as well as a protagonist of his time, has affected every single person he has crossed paths with, from the rap industry to the electronic scene. By mixing archive images with moving testimonies, ‘DJ Mehdi: Made in France’, paints the portrait of a genius, but also of an era.”

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In 2022, Busy P released unheard music by DJ Mehdi, which he had unearthed from a recording session started in 2001. Speaking with Mixmag at the time, the label head called DJ Mehdi a "revolution".

DJ Mehdi: Made In France rewinds time to unpack the inspiring journey of a producer who leaves an indelible mark on French electronic music and beyond. With emotional tributes from family members, including his mother Latifa Essadi, his cousin Myriam Essadi, and his wife Fafi, the series is a touching and intimate portrait of an artist who passed away too soon.

Watch the series here.

Meena Sears is Mixmag's Digital Intern, follow her on Instagram