The music world has lost one of its most vibrant pioneers.
Eamon Downes—better known in rave circles as Ame or simply Liquid—passed away at 45 after a five-year fight with a brain tumor, as confirmed by close friends on Monday.
From 1990s Dance Floor to Timeless Anthem
Eamon made his mark as one half of the duo Liquid, who burst onto the early-’90s dance scene with the iconic anthem Sweet Harmony.
Released in 1992, the track stormed the UK charts and became a club staple.
Signed to XL Recordings—the label that also championed The Prodigy—Liquid helped define an era.
A Tough but Inspiring Farewell in Rome
Family and friends gathered in Rome on Tuesday for a private ceremony.
Eamon’s wife, Stella, delivered a heartfelt tribute in both Italian and English.
As the touching service drew to a close, Sweet Harmony played—ushering in an emotionally resonant farewell.
Shared Memories and Heartfelt Tributes
Billy Daniel Bunter, long-time friend and collaborator, shared his grief on social media:
“We started out in a record shop in ’89… From curry and chips in Stepney, to Labrynth… some of the best memories of my life with Eamon.”
He paid tribute to Eamon’s relentless spirit and deep bond with his daughter and wife, noting how Eamon “fought so hard the last five years.”
Those who loved him could still communicate with him right until the end.
A Life in Music Spanning Decades
Even after Liquid’s rise, Eamon never slowed down.
He continued under the Liquid name, releasing Atmospheric Rave as recently as 2023.
His influence stretched across decades—he crafted classic tracks like Liquid Is Liquid while shaping the sound and momentum of XL Recordings.
Fellow DJs Keep His Spirit Alive
Tributes poured in from industry peers. DJ Post Human remembered him as “a funny f**ker with a scathing take… always delivered sweetly,” recalling their shared laughs through lockdown and health challenges.
Legendary DJ Goldie posted a simple, powerful message: “Rest in power king.” XL Recordings added:
“With eternal classics like ‘Sweet Harmony’ and ‘Liquid is Liquid’, Eamon helped define the sound of 90s rave and beyond.”
His Family and His Artistic Legacy
Eamon leaves behind his wife Stella and their daughter Bea.
Though he’s gone, his voice echoes through the dance music scene—every rave, every radio show, every late-night headphone session carries a piece of his beat.
