Pete Tong Addresses John Summit's Remix Theft Claims
Legendary DJ and BBC Radio 1 tastemaker Pete Tong has addressed the recent accusations made by John Summit concerning a remix of the track 'Missing'.
The dispute, which has unfolded publicly, centers on Summit's claim that Tong took a remix they were working on together and redeveloped it into a separate collaboration with Franky Rizardo.
In an interview with Alex Tripi, CEO of the Pete Tong DJ Academy, Tong offered his perspective on the situation.
He explained that there had been "positive conversations on text about making a new version of his remix," referring to Summit's work.
Simultaneously, Tong stated he was also in discussions with Franky Rizardo about creating a different version of the same track.
This development matters to the audience because it sheds light on the complexities of music collaborations and intellectual property within the electronic music scene.
Tong clarified that it is common practice to have multiple versions or cover versions of a song.
He suggested that the plan was to potentially release an orchestral version, a version with Franky Rizardo, and a version with John Summit.
The 'Missing' Remix Origin
The orchestral rendition of 'Missing' was initially conceived for the upcoming winter leg of Tong's Ibiza Classics tour, where he performs dance tracks with a live orchestra.
According to Tong, he first secured approval from Tracey Thorn and Ben Watt of Everything But The Girl to perform the orchestral arrangement live.
He later sought their permission again to transform that arrangement into a remix alongside John Summit and Layton Giordani.
Tong also presented what he described as a proposal from May 13, 2026, outlining a release strategy.
This document suggested that the Franky Rizardo version, featuring minimal orchestral elements and a replayed vocal, was intended for release within six weeks.
John Summit's mix, the proposal indicated, was slated for a later summer release, though timelines were open for discussion.
This suggests a staggered release plan for different versions of the track.
Key points
- Pete Tong has publicly responded to accusations from John Summit that he stole a remix of 'Missing'.
- Tong stated that there were ongoing conversations about creating multiple versions of the 'Missing' remix, including one with Franky Rizardo and another with John Summit.
- Franky Rizardo has withdrawn from his planned involvement in the remix release following the controversy.