Is Aphex Twin one person? Did Aphex Twin really have a brother?

Aphex Twin is indeed one person—a remarkable and enigmatic artist named Richard David James. His stage name, “Aphex Twin,” has intrigued fans for decades. Interestingly, he did have a brother, but tragically, his older brother, also named Richard James, was stillborn before Aphex Twin’s birth.

In memory of his late brother, he adopted the stage name “Aphex Twin,” combining “Aphex” from the brand of audio signal processing equipment (Aphex Systems Limited) and “Twin” to honor his sibling. This poignant connection adds depth to Aphex Twin’s artistic journey and mystique.

Aphex Twin’s 1992 debut album Selected Ambient Works 85–92, released by Belgian label Apollo, garnered wider critical and popular acclaim. His first release was the 12″ EP Analogue Bubblebath, released on Mighty Force in September 1991.

Aphex Twin began DJing at free parties and clubs in Cornwall and around the South West in the late 1980s. Iconic singles like “Come to Daddy” (1997) and “Windowlicker” (1999) catapulted Aphex Twin into the international spotlight.

In 2014, Aphex Twin released the album Syro on Warp, winning the Grammy Award for Best Dance/Electronic Album. On 3 June 2017, Aphex Twin performed at the Field Day festival and released a limited edition EP, London 03.06.17.