Nicky Blackmarket

Drum & Bass Artist Profile, Discography & Events

Nicky Blackmarket, born Nicholas Andersson-Gylden in December 1967, is a pioneering British drum and bass DJ and producer of Indian Nepali, Irish, and Swedish descent. He began his DJ career at 14, playing electro music at youth clubs in London before expanding into various dance genres at house parties and on pirate radio stations such as Pulse FM and Eruption FM.

In 1990, Nicky became involved with Blackmarket Records in Soho, Central London, eventually becoming part-owner. Sensing the growing breakbeat movement, he established a dedicated section for the genre in the store during the early 1990s, transforming it into a key destination for jungle and drum and bass enthusiasts. Under the alias Nick OD, he released influential tracks like the Spam EP, which contributed to the development of the genre.

Throughout his career, Nicky collaborated with notable figures, including Ray Keith, with whom he worked both at Blackmarket Records and on his own label, Gyroscope. His regular shows on Pulse FM and performances at iconic venues such as Roller Express helped cement his status as a leading figure in the hardcore and jungle scenes.

Renowned for his dynamic DJ sets, Nicky Blackmarket has performed worldwide, maintaining an enduring presence in the drum and bass community for over two decades. Drawing on early jazz influences from his mother's background, his performances are celebrated for their variety and improvisational flair, solidifying his legacy as one of the genre’s true innovators.