There are varying reports about his age, ranging from 50 to 52.
Born Philippe Cerboneschi, Zdar first started working with his Cassius counterpart Hubert Blanc-Francard (a.k.a. Boom Bass) in 1988, producing for hip-hop artist MC Solaar. They went on to form an electronic group called La Funk Mob, and Zdar later released an album with Étienne de Crécy under the moniker Motorbass.
Cassius released their first single "Foxxy" in 1996, eventually putting out their debut album 1999 in 1999. Au Rêve, 15 Again, CASSIUSPLAY: Nike+ Original Run and Ibifornia followed.
The duo were slated to release a new album titled Dreems tomorrow (June 21).
In addition to their work with Cassius, the production duo also worked with a number of other prominent artists, including Phoenix, Beastie Boys, Cut Copy, Chromeo, the Rapture, Franz Ferdinand and Hot Chip.
Tributes from collaborators and admirers have been flooding in since news of Zdar's death broke. See some of those below.
philippe zdar was such a huge inspiration. i remember spending weeks mastering 'unbelievers' — putting it up against phoenix's '1901' as the benchmark of an incredible mix, —nothing could touch it. we had to mix it over and over again just to get close.
— Rostam (@matsoR) June 20, 2019
every single mix on 'wolfgang amadeus phoenix' is a masterpiece— loud, exciting, wide as hell and never, ever harsh. #zdar
— Rostam (@matsoR) June 20, 2019
Philippe Zdar was a great inspiration, both as a producer, but particularly as a good man and friend.
— Αλεξ Καπράνος (@alkapranos) June 20, 2019
His taste was impeccable and is heard on everything he worked on.
He had a huge joy for life, generosity and passion.
I will miss him terribly.
RIP #philippezdar - used to drive around to this record with @matthewdear as young punks. From all accounts a lovely human. - sv4 pic.twitter.com/NrNJFylUHQ
— Ghostly (@ghostly) June 20, 2019
So sad to hear of the passing of the legendary #philippezdar of @CASSIUSOFFICIAL. A true original and a unique talent who was involved in making our first album, as well as so many amazing records. Your energy and generosity will be sorely missed. RIP brozeur xxx ❤️❤️❤️
— cut copy (@cutcopy) June 20, 2019
RIP Philippe Zdar, a visionary and tectonic force who shaped the geography of modern dance music. I am so sorry to the many friends who mourn his sudden and terrible loss tonight.
— THE BLACK MADONNA (@blackmadonnachi) June 20, 2019
He mixed Needy Girl & Rage for the Euro release of our 1st album. Then he mixed the entire Fancy Footwork album. Then Business Casual. He played a huge role in developing our sound. We're devastated. RIP Philippe Zdar of Cassius, Motorbass & La Funk Mob, a true musical genius. pic.twitter.com/Y7pNmzREyt
— FUNKLORDZ (@Chromeo) June 20, 2019
Farewell Zdar old friend. You were always a profound source of inspiration and support. I'll miss bumping into you on the streets of Paris and talking music for hours. Devastated... j
— Jagwar Ma (@JagwarMa) June 20, 2019
I woke up to the news that my friend Zdar has passed. I'm shocked.
— carl craig (@carlcraignet) June 20, 2019
RIP Philippe Zdar of Cassius. He was one of the first real stars of music I got to spend time with in 2004 at RBMA Rome. Will never forget the impact his conversation had on me and his music still inspires me to this day.
— Plastician (@Plastician) June 20, 2019
What a tragic loss. Heart is with @edbangerrecords
Awful news about Phillipe Zdar, what an unbelievably lovely man with an incredible legacy. I was mesmerized by this record as a 15 year old https://t.co/H79OZ19Nxq
— Calvin Harris (@CalvinHarris) June 20, 2019