DJ Casper, known by his birth name Willie Perry Jr., has passed away at the age of 58 after battling cancer, as confirmed by his family.

Famed for creating the iconic dance anthem ‘Cha Cha Slide,’ Perry’s musical legacy resonates with countless individuals who’ve enthusiastically danced to the tune at various occasions, from birthdays to weddings and grand celebrations.

Kim, DJ Casper’s wife, shared that he departed surrounded by his loved ones, according to reports from ABC.

Throughout his career, DJ Casper delivered spirited performances of the ‘Cha Cha Slide’ across numerous venues while on tour, marking the song as a worldwide sensation.

Tragically, his life’s trajectory was altered by a cancer diagnosis he received seven years ago. This diagnosis hindered his musical tours significantly, and complex surgical interventions were impossible due to the challenging positioning of the tumors. In the months preceding his passing, DJ Casper conversed with ABC about the extraordinary ascent of the iconic track and his cancer diagnosis in 2016.

He reflected, “Initially, I introduced it as an aerobic exercise for my nephew at Bally’s. Subsequently, it skyrocketed. Elroy Smith from WGCI played a pivotal role in its propagation.”

“I am the creator of one of the most resonating songs, echoing across stadiums: be it hockey, basketball, football, or baseball; it even resonated at the Olympics. It was a unifying force.”

“In 2016, they diagnosed me with dual forms of cancer—renal and Neuroendocrine, impacting both kidney and liver. While attempting surgical intervention, it was uncovered that the kidney was intricately linked to the main artery. Consequently, surgical intervention was deemed too risky, leading to a decision for non-surgical treatment.” Heartfelt tributes have inundated from the music community and fervent fans of DJ Casper worldwide, as they seek to honor his memory.

One individual expressed that the news of his demise “breaks my heart,” while another highlighted how DJ Casper “dispersed happiness to countless souls.”

Many have resolved to honor DJ Casper’s memory by stepping onto the dance floor, vowing to actively participate whenever the ‘Cha Cha Slide’ resounds once more.