A prominent figure in Liverpool's nightlife community has died. DJ John Hooper was a well-known presence at several city centre venues, including The Navy and Garlands, and was widely recognised for playing a key role in the success of GBar.
Husband's heartfelt tribute
In a heartfelt statement, John's husband, David Peters-Hooper, said: "John Hooper gained his Angel wings this morning [June 3]. I am going to miss you so much my lovely husband. Thank you for the memories. I love you so much. My heart is broken."
Outpouring of tributes online
Tributes were shared in droves online. Stefanie Parsons said: "John, thank you for being the most incredibly kind hearted person there ever was. You’ve shown determination and strength like no other and you will be massively missed by many."
Andy Locker said: "John was always such a lovely kind person. Thoughts are with you all." John Cotton said: "John was one of the original DJs at Gbar and played a huge part in making the club the success it is. I have many happy memories of the times we spent DJing together at The G. Rest in peace mate."
GBar pays tribute
GBar also paid tribute with a statement that read: "John was a true GBar original, part of the very foundation of the club and a massive reason why it became so special. He was a genuinely kind soul and a warm, friendly face to everyone who walked through the doors. Thank you for the incredible music and all the beautiful memories."
Further tributes followed after GBar's with close to 100 others paying their respects. DJ Lee Butler said: "Sad news. Love to his family."
"He was vital to the club's success"
Paul Culshaw said: "Absolutely loved him. Beyond talented, such a nice person to work with, was a walking encyclopedia of knowledge about house music. He was vital to the club's success. Kind, generous, brilliant."
"A sad day for the GBar. We’ve lost a crucial vital member of the club's history in losing John today. He was the soundtrack to so many of our lives. Love to his husband, family, friends and anybody that knew and loved him. Rest well."
Another person said: "When I heard the news today I genuinely felt a profound sense of loss. I shared many great nights with John, boss memories, sharing music, going vinyl shopping together and taking the p*** at a s*** mix we'd done."
"A true Gbar great, taken prematurely. Life's for living and did he live his passion, keep spinning up in the realms mate. You'll be missed mate, it was and always will be a pleasure."
Another person said: "Gutted to hear this. John had such a gentle and warm nature. RIP to a GBar legend." Matt Gall said: "RIP John Hooper. A proper pioneer of house music and a Liverpool icon. Above all a true gent."
Anton Powers said: "One of the nicest guys you could meet and a great DJ as well. Liverpool clubland, especially the G Bar, will miss you. RIP mate. Thoughts with your family."
Adrian Gilliard said: "This guy is the very essence of GBar. I remember his personality shining through his tunes. RIP JH." Tom Kearns-Coste said: "Extremely sad news. Another part of our fabric lost."
Kelly Woods said: "He will be missed by many. Sad news for everyone who knew and loved him. A great DJ and all round lovely guy with time for everyone. Sending love to his family and friends."
