Family, Funk & Forward Motion: Meet Funk Cartel
bROTHERS IN rhythm
London-based duo Funk Cartel, made up of siblings Rory and Cameron, bring a shared history, family legacy, and deep-rooted passion for house music into everything they create. Raised in a musical household, their story goes far beyond bedroom DJ setups and into the roots of UK dance music history.
“We do come from a musical family,” they explain. “Our dad is a drummer and raised us on house music, and our uncles on our mum’s side ran an acid house record label called Reach Out Records.”
Those uncles even threw some of the earliest acid house raves in the UK inside their grandfather’s printing factory, Hedonism—with legendary guests like Sade attending. “We’re very proud to have this history in the family.”
Their parents also exposed them to the culture of dance music from a young age. “They introduced us to Ibiza in the early 2000s, and that has been a massive inspiration to our sound.” The island, along with their family roots, planted the seeds of what Funk Cartel would eventually become.
funk with purpose
Their name—Funk Cartel—came to life during a Wagamama brainstorm session. “We had a lot of really bad names,” they laugh, “but when ‘Funk Cartel’ came up, we knew straight away it was the one.” Before teaming up officially, they DJ’d individually through their teenage years, slowly building the foundation of what would become a powerhouse sibling act.
Today, their sound is a vibrant mix of groove-led rhythms, atmospheric textures, and vocal-driven hooks—music that sits comfortably between underground clubs and international stages. Their productions are designed to make people move but also to connect with something deeper.
The duo's chemistry is undeniable. “We both agree it would be much harder without each other. From traveling to production feedback, we’re a strong team and balance off each other like yin and yang.”
repping the roots
Their discography includes respected releases on Hottrax, including their standout Discotexx EP, and independent projects like Cartel Cuts Vol. 1. Tracks like “Higher” and “Feel It” have become staples, known for delivering high-energy, club-ready vibes.
inspired by legacy
inspired by legacy
inspired by legacy
When it comes to influences, Ibiza looms large. “Growing up, it was artists like Roger Sanchez, Erick Morillo, and Pete Tong—especially since we went to the same school as Pete, which inspired us to believe we could achieve a legacy like his.”
Their family didn’t just inspire them with house music either. “The first name that comes to mind is David Byrne and Talking Heads—an artistic mastermind!” they say. “We’ve also come to really appreciate Prince, Led Zeppelin, and Jimi Hendrix.”
Being surrounded by music and creativity from every angle helped shape their path. “Most of our friends are creatives, and we all bounce off each other with our different endeavours, businesses, and projects.”
With strong roots, a clear vision, and undeniable chemistry, Funk Cartel are carving out a space that’s all their own. From Ibiza inspiration to London grit, they’re honoring house music’s legacy while building their own.
This is Funk Cartel. Built on funk. Backed by family. Made to move you.