We are all deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of Nick Williams, who passed away at home on 21st December, after bravely battling cancer since March.
Nick was part of the heart of Phonica Records for 18 years. From behind the counter to shaping the spirit of the shop, he gave so much of himself to this place and to the community around it. His knowledge, generosity, humour, and passion for music touched countless artists, DJs, customers, and friends from all over the world.
For many of our customers, if Nick knew what you liked, he would go out of his way to find the records you would love — his recommendations were always something to be treasured.
(with Ron Trent, November 2014)
Beyond the shop, Nick ran the excellent Meda Fury label, where he championed and released electronic music from the likes of DJ Seinfeld, Ryota OPP, Sad City, and more. In late 2020, he curated the charity compilation album The Many, featuring exclusive tracks from diverse electronic artists such as Basement Jaxx, DBridge, Levon Vincent. Released in response to the George Floyd protests, the album’s proceeds supported social justice charities, demonstrating Nick’s commitment to unity, justice, and using music to make a difference.
Nick was also an exceptional DJ. He could play any room, for any crowd, at any venue — effortlessly versatile, deeply musical, and guided by a wealth of knowledge that few could match. Whether it was a warm-up, a closing set, or something in between, Nick always played with care, curiosity, and soul.
He was immensely passionate about Record Store Day, and every year he was there all day making sure it ran smoothly, from the sound system to the surprise guest DJs, helping to create memorable moments for our community and customers alike.
Nick wasn’t just a colleague — he was family. The shop won’t feel the same without him, and he will be profoundly missed.
Our thoughts are with his wife, Liz, and his family at this time.
Rest in peace, Nick.
A few months ago, whilst battling his illness, Nick gave us an extraordinary mix for our Phonica Friends & Family mix…..It really is a 4 hour long epic and what better tribute to his taste and passion for music, especially in the beautiful final track…..Aardvarck – ‘U Are, Not What U Think’.
As a DJ Nick has played some of London’s most iconic clubs – Fabric, Corsica, Plastic People, Pikes and more and has shared line ups with some of the biggest names like Moodymann, Four Tet and Carl Craig to name a few. This mix is a sprawling, immersive journey that reflects both his deep knowledge of music and his refusal to be boxed in by genre. Starting slow with trip-hop textures and off-kilter sonics, it gradually shapeshifts through leftfield house, post-punk, shoegaze, trance, hardcore, jungle, techno and pop edits—touching on rare library gems and unreleased cuts from his Meda Fury label along the way. It’s the kind of mix made for long journeys, late-night headphones, or zoning out mid-chore—layered, emotional, and full of the unexpected. A sonic scrapbook from a head who truly listens.
