After 10 years, Decoded today announces a major change in the ownership and editorial direction of the publication. Since its first inception as This is Progressive and its name change to Decoded Magazine in 2014, Decoded has been a champion of the underground electronic music industry, featuring a host of known global artists, including Nick Warren, James Zabeila, Carl Cox, James Lavelle, Dave Seaman, Anthony Pappa through to elevating up and coming artists over the last decade, including mixes, interviews, collaborations and Pioneer DJ Radio with Luke Brancaccio. It has held over 30 events in 6 countries and worked with labels, promoters and platforms to bring a professional approach to music journalism.
In a major shift, Co-founders Ian French and Daz Pearson have decided to pursue further careers beyond the music industry and current Editor Damion Pell will take over the sole ownership and management of Decoded Magazine.
Co-founder Daz Pearson reflects;
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At the heart of what we managed to build over the years were our dedicated writers and being exposed to their passion for music which equalled and sometimes surpassed that of our own. I was fortunate enough to travel and meet some awesome people at press events, festivals and conferences including Absolut x elrow, IMS Ibiza, IMS Malta, Cocoon in the Park, Arcadia London, Moondance Festival Croatia, Printworks London, Junction2 London, Awakenings Festival to name a few.
Within the past few years, my duties turned to the relaunch of Decoded Creative to expand our design and marketing services to artists and labels beyond the magazine all during the time the entire industry was navigating a catastrophic global pandemic. There were challenges, massive opportunities for personal growth and really finding out the relationship and friendship Ian and Damion had built could get us through anything. Unfortunately, after nearly ten years in the media and helping others in their online presence it’s time for me to bow out of the scene and wish Damion the very best in his future plans for Decoded. When we first embarked on this adventure we had no idea it would evolve into what it is today and would like to thank everyone who has supported and followed what we do. Damo has been a true driving force and visionary in the development of Decoded. Furthermore, Damo and Ian have been excellent friends which will long continue. There is nothing but love and respect although we have chosen our new paths in life.”
Daz is joined by Co-founder Ian French;
“Over the past 10 years, it has been incredible working alongside Damion and Daz at Decoded Magazine. I have had the opportunity to work alongside some incredible artists and people in the electronic music world. It would be impossible for me to thank all the amazing people I have worked alongside to deliver new music, interviews and articles to our readers around the world. You know who you are, and thank you!
It has taken me many months of consideration to come to the decision to move on from Decoded Magazine. It is time for me to move on to new things and achieve new goals outside of the music world. My passion for music will always be in my heart but I have to be honest with myself and the scene, as it is now, is not something that I have the love for like I did when I first fell in love with electronic music. Things may change over time but for now, it is goodbye! Finally, I would like to personally thank Daz and Damion for everything. We really have had some epic times, always finding humour in the most stupid and dark things which has been important when fighting through the hard times we have all experienced since we began the Decoded Magazine journey. I love you both like family and wish you all the very best in everything you do… I may be saying goodbye for now, but I am sure some of you will still see me throwing some shapes around the U.K. at some of my favourite events from time to time.”
Over the coming months, Decoded will be announcing a slew of new partnerships and editorial changes to reflect the growing nature of the exciting music culture the world keeps giving, including a focus on live electronic music, including Indie Electronic, Electro, Breaks, Ambient, Chill Out, Downtempo acts, smaller events, up and coming artists, tech reviews, travel & lifestyle features as well as partnerships with media outlets, labels and platforms to bring exciting new content to its readers. fear not, we will still stay true to our ethos and stay well away from the commercial music industry.
“It’s been an amazing journey with all those who have been a part of Decoded’s success in building a respected music platform. The family and mateship bond between Daz, Ian and myself will see us still grabbing pints and sharing laughs, I cannot thank them enough for the incredible ride we have all ridden together. I look forward to releasing the next few months new editorial guidelines, features, and site changes to reflect the direction I will be leading the magazine” – Damion Pell Editor
Here’s to the next 10 years and we thank you for your continued support
