Your podcast mix is a different vibe from your usual style. Your sound has previously been rooted in housey / deep house sounds whereas this mix leans into more dubby stuff laced with pop vocals. Where did you draw inspiration for this mix and what sort of mood were you in when you were putting it together?

This mix is a lot different to what I usually play, but I am definitely just trying to explore mixing contrasting sounds together! I think making this mix, I had been bumping a lot of UKG and watching heaps of Youtube videos on the production side of it, so I think that is a big factor on what inspired me for this mix. I love the groove of UKG and UK Bass. I think it is so funky and I love how rhythmic it is. I was in a mood where I think I wanted to just try something new. I had never made a mix with this style of music, so I think it was a bit more challenging, however it is definitely a style I think has stuck with me.  

You’ve just graduated from DJ101, a program for female identifying, trans + non binary artists run by DJ Sarah. What did you gain most out of the workshops and how has it helped you break into the dance music scene?

OMG!! DJ101 was seriously such a rewarding experience. Being in an environment that was made up of women, GNC people, and LGBTQIA+ people was the best place to learn how to DJ. There was only eight of us, so it was quite a small group, which meant we all were able to have quality time learning how to play on the good equipment. I think being in this kind of environment for me was just so wholesome. Like we all just supported one another and made some great friendships out of it.

I think what I got most out of the workshops is that there is not one 'right' way to DJ. We had a myriad of DJ guests come in, and they all DJ differently! I think going into it, I thought there would be more rules on how to approach DJing, however that is not true. Everyone does it differently, and you just have to find what works for you.

I think being a part of this program honestly really helped boost my confidence. Before DJ101, I would have never put out a mix. But after being in such a supportive environment, I trusted my abilities and knew I was/am capable of putting myself out there. Also big shoutout to Sarah for creating something that is so beneficial and rewarding for emerging DJs. Big love.

What inspired you to start DJing

I started getting really into dance music in like 2019. I fell in love with it. I think a big part of it was seeing DJs I love play live, and realising that it was something I want to do. My whole life I have always wanted to play live, but it was only within the last few years where I realised DJing is something that I would love to do. Going to places like Pitch were SO inspiring. Seeing DJs enjoying what they're doing brought me so much joy.

‍

‍

What’s your process when producing music and what’s your favourite tool you use to experiment with sounds?

I do not have a process. Lol. Probably not the best way to approach making music but it works for me, I guess? It totally just depends on how I am feeling in the moment. Making music for me is definitely something that takes a while. I am quite picky with what I end up using and I have to be in the mood to produce. I guess my process could just be small ideas and how I develop them into bigger ideas.

A tool I love to experiment with sounds is my Tera Echo guitar pedal. It creates cool echos and works well when I plug it into my Korg Minilogue synth for FX noises!

Did you have a music background growing up or formal training before you started producing?

I actually was a jazz trombonist before I got into electronic music and DJing. I played for like 7 years (still technically do, but I am definitely not good anymore) in jazz bands and symphony orchestras. I dedicated a lot of time to trombone throughout my teen years and it is a big part of my theoretical and cultural understanding of music. I thought being a jazz trombonist was the path I was going to go down. But I didn't and that's okay! I want to eventually get back into playing trombone so I can incorporate that side of music into my production. I think that would be cool.

What are you most looking forward to this year?

This year, I am looking forward to eventually (when I have the motivation) to release an EP! I am also looking forward to just taking some time for my mental health. I want to go on some more trips around Australia and just enjoy relaxing for a bit!

Whats coming up soon for Priya?

The crew from DJ101 are hopefully organising an event which will happen in the next few months, which I am looking forward to! I don't have anything too big coming up at the moment. Just taking some time for myself and to work on making some music!!!! <3333