Born Andrew Carthy in 1972 in Macclesfield, England, Mr Scruff is a DJ, producer, cartoonist, and tea enthusiast known for his eclectic blend of genres and playful visual aesthetic. Influenced by hip-hop, soul, reggae, jazz, funk, and electronic music, Mr Scruff began DJing in the late 1980s before releasing his first single in 1995. His breakthrough album, *Keep It Unreal* (1999), showcased his signature mix of quirky samples, deep grooves, and whimsical artwork, with tracks like “Get a Move On!

” achieving enduring cult popularity. Renowned for marathon DJ sets that traverse genres and eras, Mr Scruff’s approach champions high-quality sound systems and a warm, inclusive atmosphere. He is closely associated with the Ninja Tune label, through which he has released acclaimed albums including *Trouser Jazz* (2002), *Ninja Tuna* (2008), and *Friendly Bacteria* (2014).

Beyond music, his distinctive hand-drawn cartoons have become a hallmark of his brand, appearing on album covers, merchandise, and event visuals. Mr Scruff is also passionate about sustainability and community engagement, often collaborating with local venues, artists, and charities. He runs the long-standing “Keep It Unreal” club night in Manchester, exemplifying his commitment to positive and diverse dancefloor experiences.

With a career spanning over two decades, Mr Scruff remains a respected and influential figure in UK electronic music, celebrated for his inventive creativity, technical skill, and sense of fun.