Remembering Yukon Sleeman & Hollis Smith: A Legacy Etched in Music
This is not the type of thing I ever want to write about. Unfortunately, life is fragile, and sometimes we lose those we care deeply about. Today, it’s with a heavy heart that I share the passing of two incredible artists who’ve left an indelible mark on blocSonic and all who knew them.
The day after Christmas, I was stunned to hear the news of Hollis Smith’s sudden passing. Hollis, who we knew as Mr. & Mrs. Smith, was a cherished member of our music family. I wanted to get through the holidays before memorializing her here, and then, just days later, came more devastating news. On January 2nd, Cheese (of Cheese N Pot-C) called to inform me that Yukon Sleeman, known to us all as Yuk MC, had suddenly passed away on New Year’s Day.
I’m incredibly saddened to say that we’ve lost not just one, but two remarkable talents in the blocSonic family. It’s difficult to express just how deeply this loss is felt.
Yukon Sleeman: A Voice That Shined Bright
Yukon Sleeman, known to his fans as Yuk MC, was a force of nature. His connection to blocSonic goes back more than a decade, to 2014, when he first featured on Cheese N Pot-C’s album EXPLWORAZ. However, his musical roots stretch back even further—30 years of friendship and collaboration with Cheese N Pot-C, as a key member of Krazy Shitz and P.U.C.K.
In 2021, Yuk MC made his solo debut on blocSonic with Smokeshow, a vibrant album that showcased his unique style and lyrical prowess. That same year, he remixed Louis Lingg and The Bombs’ track “Disrupt”, adding his signature flavor. Over the next two years, Yuk continued to build his impressive discography with the release of Riding That Rainbow (Featuring JakeMo), Analogue Dreams, and The Future Presents The Past.
Yuk wasn’t just an artist; he was a storyteller. His distinctive flow and heartfelt delivery made him one of the standout MCs on blocSonic. Whenever he appeared on a track, you could feel his passion—he gave it everything. Beyond his music, he contributed to our community in a unique way through the podcast Bloc Discovery Sessions, where he took deep dives into blocSonic’s rich history. Sadly, the show was cut short due to health issues, but in just two episodes, he offered a glimpse of his incredible perspective.
Even though I was aware of his health struggles, the news of his passing still came as a shock. Yuk was more than just an artist; he was a friend, a collaborator, and a bright light in our community. His music, his voice, and his presence will be deeply missed.
Hollis Smith: A Distinctive Voice, A Timeless Presence
Hollis Smith, who performed as Mr. & Mrs. Smith, was first introduced to blocSonic listeners in 2013 through our netBloc compilation series. From the moment I heard her music, I knew we had discovered something special. In 2014, we released INTRO, a compilation of 14 songs that Hollis originally shared independently. The following year, she released her debut blocSonic album Taxidermy, along with the maxi-singles Dark Country Road, Trophies, and Taxidermy.
Hollis had a style all her own—a compelling blend of folk and country, delivered with unflinching honesty. Her music was raw and real, and her voice had a way of drawing you in, making you feel every note. She was prolific, releasing an incredible amount of music in a relatively short time, before stepping away to focus on motherhood after the birth of her daughter, Reason.
Hollis’ music always felt like an open book, inviting listeners to experience her world. Her storytelling, her emotion, and her unique delivery set her apart from anyone else. She may no longer be with us, but her music lives on—a timeless testament to her talent and spirit.
Visit Mr. & Mrs. Smith’s artist page
A Farewell, But Not Goodbye
I’m heartbroken for the families of Yukon Sleeman and Hollis Smith, especially for their children. Seeing the outpouring of love and remembrance on social media has been a testament to just how much they meant to so many people.
I personally believe that the best way we can honor their memory is by continuing to listen to their music. Through their art, they shared a piece of themselves with the world. Their music will live on forever, allowing all of us who miss them to keep hearing their voices, their lessons, and their unique perspectives on life.
Rest in peace, Yukon and Hollis. You may be gone, but your legacy is etched in music, and you will never be forgotten.
Mike Gregoire
Founder/Curator blocSonic.com