Legendary Scottish DJ JD Switch dies aged 57 after being diagnosed with a terminal brain tumour

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Keith McIvor, the celebrated Scottish DJ known as JD Twitch, has sadly passed away at the age of 57 following a battle with a terminal brain tumor.

The musician worked with producer Jonnie Wilkes, known as JG Wilkes, as part of the duo behind Optimo Espacio, a popular weekly club night held at Sun Club in Glasgow.

On Saturday, Jonnie shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram that Keith had passed away on Friday afternoon. He described his friend as someone who had profoundly changed his life.

I’m heartbroken to share that Keith passed away peacefully yesterday at 2:06 PM at The Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice in Glasgow. I’m sharing some photos of us together.

Over twenty-eight years, this person profoundly impacted my life, and together we achieved remarkable things, taking our work to exciting and unusual places.

He added that he would always be thankful for everything his colleague gave him, both through their musical collaboration and their friendship.

Keith approached life, music, and everything he created with unwavering energy and a deep commitment to making things better. He was a truly powerful and inspiring person.

He always believed in the power of people working together, and I admired him deeply for that unwavering faith.

I’m sending all my love to everyone who knew Keith. My heart goes out to his family and friends right now. I also want to thank them, and everyone who’s been there for each other and supported Keith over these last few difficult months – it means so much to see that kind of strength and love.

‘Thank you to the staff at The Hospice who made this last while as good as it possibly could be.

It’s with deep sadness that we say goodbye to Keith, who passed away much too early. He’s now embarking on a final journey, and though he’s gone, the impact he had on all who knew him will live on. We will always love and remember him.

In July, Keith shared with his fans on social media that he had been diagnosed with a type of brain cancer called glioblastoma, explaining his recent absence from several performances.

Marissa, his wife, quickly organized a fundraiser on Crowdfunder UK and, in less than three months, they raised an impressive £147,411.

In an August update, Marissa shared that Kevin’s health had quickly gotten worse, now requiring around-the-clock nursing care. His condition was impacting his ability to speak, move, and care for himself.

Following the news of his passing, fellow DJ Daniel Avery shared a tribute, writing: ‘He was truly one of the best. Together, you brought so much happiness, energy, and a sense of community to countless people.’

And let’s not forget all the DJs you’ve influenced over the years. Sending you lots of love, my friend. Your impact will definitely live on.

DJ Gonno shared that he’ll honor Keith’s memory and keep his influence going. He said, ‘Rest in peace, my mentor-I miss you dearly.’

People shared heartfelt messages remembering a wonderful person who passed away too soon. Many expressed deep sadness at the loss and sent their love and support to his family and friends.

BICEP expressed their deep sadness, saying they were devastated by the loss of Keith and Optimo. They shared that he had a huge influence on them, was a major figure in UK music and culture, and was a wonderfully kind and genuine person.

We’re heartbroken by Keith’s passing. He will be deeply missed. Sending all our love and support to Jonnie and Keith’s family during this difficult time, and keeping them in our thoughts.

In July, Keith shared that he’d been hospitalized and received a diagnosis of an untreatable brain tumor.

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2025-09-20 19:48