The Gaslamp Killer emerged from San Diego’s underground scene, forging a genre-defining fusion of psychedelic rock, left-field hip hop, and global beats. Born William Bensussen, he earned his moniker by disrupting the mainstream club vibe in the city’s Gaslamp District. After relocating to Los Angeles, he co-founded the legendary Low End Theory, a weekly showcase that became a cornerstone of the West Coast beat movement. His debut album Breakthrough and follow-ups like Instrumentalepathy, Heart Math, and the collaborative Legna with The Heliocentrics showcase his boundary pushing production style, blending Turkish strings, cosmic jazz, and heavy bass into hypnotic sonic journeys.
Known for his commanding stage presence and unpredictable live sets, The Gaslamp Killer has played sold out shows and festivals across the globe, including Coachella, Roskilde, Sonar, and Austin Psych Fest. His performances are immersive and high-energy, often featuring live bands, string sections, and theatrical visuals. Critics describe his concerts as “the epitome of unhinged energy,” with genre-defying mixes that span rock, funk, hip hop, and experimental electronica. Venues like The Lodge Room, Echoplex, and Moroccan Lounge regularly host his electrifying sets, while his live album The Gaslamp Killer Experience captures the chaos and brilliance of his stagecraft.
Currently touring across North America, The Gaslamp Killer continues to push sonic boundaries with performances in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and Salt Lake City. His latest collaborations and vinyl releases have reignited interest in his eclectic catalog, while his role in shaping the LA beat scene cements his status as a cultural phenomenon. With over 600 concerts to date and a reputation for redefining what a DJ set can be, The Gaslamp Killer remains one of the most impactful and genre-defying artists in modern electronic music
