On 8th November 2025 time stood still in Tramore, Ireland. Stephen Richards passed away suddenly at the age of 50.
Stephen was a DJ, producer and seasoned radio host on his legendary Disco Daze radio show on Opentempo. It was Disco Daze that introduced me to Stephen’s universe, like so many others who communed with him on Friday night.
Hour 1 was always Stephen and his local collaborators with Stephen always mentioning the BPM with his usual warmth and passion. The second hour sported the biggest players in the scene before the other shows, always keeping it fresh and always able to top himself over and over again.
Disco Daze had its final air time with its 250 show back in July 2022 as Stephen took a break to find out what he wanted to do next.
He had always yearned to do a show that reflected his personal taste and his musical roots in a more profound way, so he was back on the air with his next radio show, The Waveform. It aired for 12 episodes and ended in October 2022.
Disco Daze had a short comeback in August 2023 and remained on the air for another 5 shows.
The artist
Stephen Richards was a prolific producer as well. With releases on Spa In Disco, Hot Digits, Slightly Transformed and Bandolier, Richards always found new ways to express himself musically, yet maintaining his distinctive style.
He covered many genres and in many cases combined genres in refreshing ways that were distinctly his own.
The Legacy
Stephen’s importance in binding together people through his music, in particular in the tightly knit Disco/re-edits scene, can’t be overstated. He was a top selector and being on his show was a benchmark for many aspiring DJs and producers, including myself.
His passing has sent shockwaves through the disco community, leaving behind a sense of dread, disbelief and utter sadness. The outpouring from fans and friends alike has been incredible and is a testament to the legacy he leaves behind and the importance he had as a curator, producer and DJ.
I was in utter disbelief myself. I had been waiting for the return of Disco Daze to grace late Fridays once more, with Stephen’s voice and sense of style and quality.
His influence is undeniable throughout the scene and leaves behind his wonderful shows, sets, tracks, remixes and stories.
I raise my glass to Stephen Richards with a Sláinte.
This is his last recorded set from October 2025.
