Thank You, DJ Dave Ritson, for 7 Incredible Years at JOCK Party UK!
For the past seven years, DJ Dave Ritson has been the heartbeat of JOCK Party UK, spinning tracks that have made every event unforgettable. With Pride 2024 now behind us, it’s time to reflect on the incredible memories we’ve created together and express our deepest gratitude for the energy, passion, and music Dave brought to every single night.
A Journey of Beats and Brotherhood
Since he first took the decks at JOCK Party, DJ Dave Ritson has consistently set the tone with his expertly curated sets. From the very beginning, Dave has been more than just a DJ; he’s been a vital part of the JOCK family. His ability to read the room, feel the vibe, and play the perfect track at the perfect moment has made him a favorite among party-goers and a staple of the UK club scene.
Reflections on an Incredible Journey
We had the chance to sit down with Dave before his final set at Pride 2024 to ask him a few questions about his journey, his highlights and best bits.
What has been your favorite memory of JOCK Party UK?
Dave: “Getting to play the Prowler Awards after party show at Fire, which JOCK hosted. It was the first time I’d ever DJ’d in London and what a gig to start with! 😍”
Which was your favorite party to work at and why?
Dave: “The first time we did the huge Pride event at Alter Ego / Twisted Wheel. I can remember thinking to myself how incredibly lucky I am to be DJing to hundreds of incredible-looking guys all having an absolute ball dressed in fetish wear. It was one of the best moments of my DJ career.”
Give me your top three tracks played at JOCK and tell us why you’ve chosen them.
Dave:
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“Bad Girls (Gigamesh Remix)” – Donna Summer
“I’m a HUGE Donna Summer fan, and that remix just absolutely POPS.”
Watch on YouTube
2.”Cry For You (Extended Mix)” – September
“This is my guilty pleasure pop favorite, and the crowd always loves it.”
Watch on YouTube
3.”Vertigo / Relight My Fire (Long Mix)” – Dan Hartman
“It’s hard to believe this song is over 30 years old, and it still makes the dancefloor go INSANE. This will always be mine and Dave Cooper’s together song.”
Watch on YouTube
Which has been your favorite venue to play at?
Dave: “Eagle will always be special to me. They have supported me not only through JOCK but as a resident DJ too. We are incredibly lucky to have such an amazing place in Manchester, and Nick, Andrew, and everyone who has worked there with me over the years have always been so lovely and welcoming.”
What’s next for Dave Ritson?
Dave: “I’m currently sat in my AirBnB in Seville writing this, having a well-needed post-Pride break! But DJ-wise, you can still catch me at Eagle. I’m not giving up; I’m just slowing down. I’ve still got an incredible passion for music, and I don’t think that will ever leave me. But I’d also like to focus on other stuff like producing. So this definitely won’t be the last you’ve heard from me. x”
Pride 2024: The Final Bow
Pride 2024 at Joshua Brooks was a night to remember. Dave’s final set was everything we could have hoped for—a true celebration of everything he’s brought to JOCK Party over the years. The energy was electric, the dance floor was packed, and the love for Dave was palpable. It was a fitting farewell for a DJ who has meant so much to so many.
A Heartfelt Farewell
Dave, from all of us at JOCK Party and the countless fans who’ve danced the night away to your beats—thank you. Your music has been the soundtrack to some of the best nights of our lives. While we’ll miss your magic behind the decks at JOCK Party, we’re excited to see what the future holds for you.
Here’s to the memories, the music, and to Dave Ritson, the DJ who made it all happen. Although Pride 2024 marked your last set with us, your impact on JOCK Party will be felt for years to come.
Follow DJ Dave Ritson
Make sure to keep up with Dave’s future projects and music by following him on Instagram and SoundCloud.
Thank you, Dave, for seven incredible years! 🎉