Erick Morillo, a DJ from New Jersey whose 1993 song “I Like To Move It” became a dance floor sensation, has died. He was 49.
Morillo, whose childhood was split between Cartagena, Colombia and Union City, is known for his work as a producer under the name Reel 2 Real, among others.
Local 10 News in Miami (WPLG) reports that Morillo was found dead at his home in Miami Beach after police received a 911 call Tuesday morning, three days before he was due in court on a sexual battery charge. A cause of death was not disclosed.
“I Like to Move It” was produced by Morillo and featured vocals from the Trinidadian artist Mad Stuntman (Mark Quashie).
The song was revived for a dance number in the 2005 animated film “Madagascar.”
Morillo, who started the house music label Subliminal Records in Weehawken, also had success with the 1991 song “Muevelo,” which he produced for Latin reggae artist El General, and the 1998 dance song “Fun” with Da Mob, his collaboration with DJ Sneak, José Nunez and Jocelyn Brown.
Morillo was arrested in August on a sexual battery charge after a December incident at his home involving a woman who accused him of making advances towards her when they went to his house for drinks. Both had worked as DJs at a private party on Star Island. The woman said that she fell asleep in a room by herself and woke up to find herself naked and Morillo allegedly naked and standing on the side of the bed.
According to Local 10 News, Morillo denied the accusations, but after the results of a rape kit tested positive for his DNA, he turned himself in. He was scheduled to attend a court hearing Friday.
In 2012, Union City honored Morillo, who graduated from the city’s Emerson High School, by renaming a section of Bergenline Avenue, where Morillo lived (1406), for the DJ and producer. Erick Morillo Way is located between 14th and 15th Streets.
“This is about setting an example for the youth of tomorrow and letting them know that they can accomplish anything they set their mind to,” Morillo said, accepting the honor, according to a Jersey Journal report.
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Amy Kuperinsky may be reached at akuperinsky@njadvancemedia.com. Send a coronavirus tip here.