Ron Miner: 1970-2020
We are saddened beyond words to lose our friend, colleague and fellow venue owner - Ron Miner. It’s been over a week now and we have not fully come to terms with his passing. Not only was Ron a fellow venue owner, he was a personal friend to many of our members. This remembrance doesn’t even begin to provide a proper tribute to an incredible human and important leader in our community. There are so many stories to tell and personal memories our members would like to share. We’ll get to those after we’ve had proper time to work through this difficult time.
Ron Miner, known by most as DJ Indiana Jones, was an iconic member of the Indianapolis music scene since the early 90’s. His larger than life personality, work ethic and love for the “old school” always pushed him to centerstage as the leader of our hip hop and reggae communities. His impact on the music industry is evident from the messages and tributes pouring in from across the globe including Mark Ronson, Stretch Armstrong, DJ Ross One, R.O.A.D. Podcast, Shade 45 and Fake Shore Drive.
In a recent IndyStar interview, promoter Amp Harris said it best:
"He personified hip-hop. Hip-hop was what motivated Ron to live... and Ron Miner was hip-hop."
Ron began his musical career on Indy’s West Side when he started DJing at his father’s skating rink, Melody Skateland. After graduating, he spent time in New York City handling marketing duties for several major labels. In the late 90’s Ron returned back to his Indiana roots where he founded his promotion and marketing company, Crush Entertainment. Through promoting shows, consulting and managing artists Ron was a driving force for many artists in the Midwest. His work included garring national recognition for Indy group Mudkids, C. Rayz Walz and Rhymefest. When he was not working on the artists he represented, you’d find him filling in as a tour DJ for a number of artists including the legendary Kool Keith.
Ron’s pride and joy was Revolution at the Casbah. The weekly party was the longest running dance club night in the city - focused solely on reggae. Revolution has been going strong for over 20 years.
If a party was happening, you can believe that ‘Jones would be there. He loved the live shows but he excelled as an on air DJ and radio personality. Miner held down regular mix shows on a variety of commercial radio stations in Indy including WNOW and WHHH Hot 96. In 2020, he took on a new role as co-host and on air mixer for a new show on RadioNow.
Ron’s leadership shined when he began helping with the annual Chreece Festival. Through the festival Ron loved working with young artists who were fresh on the scene. Mentoring artists came naturally for for a guy who was first in line to help anyone that needed it. In 2019, his passion for development continued through helping young kids learn to DJ as an , his teachings as an instructor at Bach to Rock.
Ron’s crown jewel came earlier this year, when he took over as owner and proprietor of The Cashah. It was a milestone for him to takeover the venue where he’d been hosting his parties for over two decades.
He impacted our community with his annual “12 DJ’s of Christmas” benefit for Gleaners Food Bank. This Summer, Ron spent countless hours helping drive voter registrations across Indiana. Each of these showcase his selfless contributions to help Indianapolis in any way he could.
A public memorial will take place at The Pavilion in Indianapolis on Wednesday December 16th from 4-7pm.
Ron will forever be remembered as an Indiana icon for his contributions to Indy’s music community. His close friends will never forget his generosity, loyalty, hustle and the impact he had on their lives.
One love, Ronnie.
We’re going to miss you.
Ron MIner: 1970-2020