Few names command the respect and longevity in electronic music quite like Mark Knight. With a career spanning over three decades, he’s not only a legendary DJ and producer but also the visionary behind Toolroom Records—one of the most influential labels in dance music today. In 2024, his legacy was officially recognized with the EDMA Icon Award, further cementing his status as a cornerstone of the global house scene. From founding Toolroom and nurturing fresh talent through the Toolroom Academy to launching his soulful imprint Fool’s Paradise, Mark continues to evolve while staying true to the roots of the genre. We sat down with him to talk about his journey and his latest releases.
Source: Press Kit Mark Knight
Hi Mark, Last time we saw each other was at Beats for Love in the Czech Republic almost two years ago. How have you been since then?
Yeah, wow—time flies, doesn’t it? The last couple of years have been a whirlwind. I’ve been fully locked in, really focusing on both the music and pushing Fool’s Paradise forward. It’s been amazing to see how the scene has evolved post-pandemic, and I feel like there’s been a real hunger for proper, feel-good house music again. I’ve been in the studio a lot, working on new material, collaborating with some incredible artists, and also making sure we’re building something really special with the label.
Your track “Fighting Love” just hit the Beatport top 10—how does it feel to see such success on your own label?
Honestly, it’s an amazing feeling. I’ve been doing this for a long time, but that buzz never gets old—especially when it’s a track that means something to you personally. Releasing on my own label makes it even more special because it’s a direct reflection of what I want to put out into the world. Fool’s Paradise was created to champion soulful, groove-driven house, and to see “Fighting Love” connect with people on that level is just hugely rewarding.
You’ve had amazing success with Fool’s Paradise, with seven chart-topping releases on Traxsource. What do you think resonates most with your audience?
I think it’s just that sense of authenticity. There’s a real desire for house music that has depth and soul—music that makes you feel something, rather than just being functional club tracks. Don’t get me wrong, I love a big club record, but there’s something special about tunes that have that classic energy—the records that make you move but also lift your spirit. That’s what we’re trying to do with Fool’s Paradise, and I think that’s what people are connecting with.
You started Fool’s Paradise to bring back the soulful house you love. How do you balance staying true to your roots while evolving the sound?
For me, it’s always about respecting where the music comes from while making sure it feels fresh and relevant today. I’m massively influenced by the greats—MAW, Kerri Chandler, Frankie Knuckles—but I’m also conscious that house music is always evolving. It’s about taking those classic elements—funk, soul, groove—and presenting them in a way that still feels exciting now. That could be through modern production techniques, working with contemporary vocalists, or just making sure the records have that right balance of nostalgia and forward momentum.
Beyond music, what’s been keeping you busy lately? Any new passions or projects outside of the studio?
I’ve always been big on fitness, and that’s something I’ve stayed really committed to. I think looking after yourself—both physically and mentally—is so important, especially in an industry like this where you’re constantly on the move, in and out of clubs, late nights, early flights. I’ve also been spending more time mentoring up-and-coming artists, which is something I really enjoy. Seeing new talent come through, helping them develop their sound and navigate the industry—it’s hugely rewarding.
What do you miss most from the past in the music industry? Is there anything you feel has been lost over the years?
I do miss the tangible aspect of the industry—the way records used to break naturally. Back in the day, you’d hear a tune at a club, then you’d have to track it down, maybe wait for a vinyl release. There was this organic build-up, this sense of discovery. Now, everything is so instant—streaming, Shazam, social media—which is great in many ways, but I think we’ve lost a bit of that magic. Music doesn’t always get the time to breathe like it used to.
On the flip side, what’s something great about the industry today that wasn’t possible before?
The accessibility and the ability to collaborate globally is incredible now. Back in the day, if you wanted to work with someone, you had to be in the same studio at the same time. Now, you can collaborate with an artist on the other side of the world instantly. And from a label perspective, being able to get music out to a global audience so quickly is a massive advantage. It means that if you’ve got a great record, there’s no barrier—it can find its way to the right people almost instantly.
What’s next for Mark Knight and are there any projects or artists you’re particularly excited about?
There’s a lot in the pipeline! I’ve been working on some new records that I’m really excited about, pushing that signature sound but with a few fresh twists. I’ve also got some exciting collaborations in the works—can’t say too much yet, but let’s just say there are some serious grooves coming. And, of course, continuing to build Fool’s Paradise into something really special. We’re just getting started, and there’s a lot more to come.
