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Whether you're a dedicated music enthusiast, an aspiring artist, or simply someone who loves uncovering fresh, innovative sounds, our weekly feature promises to deliver a captivating audio experience like no other. Join us in celebrating diversity, originality, and the raw passion that fuels the underground music scene. Ready to embark on a sonic adventure unlike any other?

#SHEDJ OF THE WEEK WITH DJ MOONCHILD

SheDJs: What initially sparked your passion for DJing, and how did you get started in the music scene?

My love for music was evident from a young age, my mom fondly recalls that I was "born dancing" and music always had a way of uplifting my spirit. This innate connection to music has laid the foundation for my future endeavours in the music industry. Growing up in Olds, Alberta, I was immersed in country music. The pivotal moment when I realized the emotional storytelling aspect of music marked a significant shift in my musical perception. This discovery not only deepened my connection to music but also broadened my musical horizons.

My first mixtape had Spice Girls on one side and Shania Twain on the other. Influenced by both family and personal exploration, transitioning from country music to embracing diverse genres such as emo, punk, rock and alternative music, I developed a versatile and insatiable taste for music. My Dad has great taste in music and travelled a lot, I always went through his CD collection taking the things that stood out to me while he was on the road. Also a history of downloading and destroying some of our first desktop computers through programs like Napster and Limewire.

Shortly after graduating high school, I got back in touch with my childhood nanny- that summer she invited me to the inaugural years of Astral Harvest and Fozzy Fest, introducing me to an entirely new dimension of the music scene. These experiences exposed me to the liberating and vibrant community within the electronic music scene, fostering a sense of freedom and creativity that resonated deeply with my life path. The moment of inspiration was at a small prairie house party, where I declared my ambition to become a DJ, epitomizing my unwavering determination. True to my word, I immersed myself in the world of record collecting and took the initiative to learn the art of DJing on a set of old Pioneer100s, that worked off burnt CDs.

SheDJs: Can you share a memorable experience from one of your performances or events that stands out in your mind?

My unique experience in helping run Artist Relations departments at festivals around the world has undoubtedly provided me with numerous memorable moments. My perspective as both a performer and an integral part of the festival's organizational process adds depth to experiences.

As you stand on stage, surrounded by the very event you helped bring to life, the convergence of your organizational efforts and artistic expression creates a profound sense of interconnectedness and achievement.

One particularly memorable experience that stands out is the first years of Bamboo Bass Festival in Costa Rica. After months of meticulous planning and coordination. This dual role allowed me to appreciate the intricate journey from the early stages of planning to the culmination of the event, where I transition from a behind-the-scenes contributor to a performer.

SheDJs: How do you approach creating a setlist or choosing tracks for a particular event or venue?

When creating a setlist, I consider the venue, the demographic of the audience, and the overall vibe of the event. I aim to take the audience on a journey, blending established crowd-pleasers with fresh tracks and hidden gems from various genres. I believe in creating an immersive experience, where each track seamlessly flows into the next, building and releasing energy in sync with the crowd's mood. I usually spend $20-$50 to get new music for an event. I’m always searching Soundcloud for any interesting free downloads, I get a lot of cheeky remixes this way. I like to contribute to cohesive sounding nights and I do think of mixing as an art, I think deeply about my time slot, and the other performers and how my sound will fit into that. Just before the event, I’ll pull together about 50 songs, run them through Rekordbox and have an idea of the songs that would be great to start my sets off with. I have multiple usbs, so I also bring all my sticks to an event so if I’m not feeling something I can switch up what I’m playing and I always request at least 3 decks so I can showcase my blends to the full extent.

SheDJs: Are there specific genres or artists that have had a significant influence on your style?

My style has been shaped by a diverse range of genres and artists, but particularly, the vibrant and underground electronic scene of England has been a cornerstone of my artistic development. The innovative sounds of UK drum and bass and dubstep have had a profound influence on my approach to DJing. Its rich tapestry of sonic experimentation and boundary-pushing creativity has left an indelible mark on your musical sensibilities, contributing to the evolution of your unique style. Artists like DBridge, Mala, and LSN have inspired me with their fearless creativity and boundary-pushing performances.

SheDJs: In a constantly evolving industry, how do you stay updated on new music trends and technologies?

Staying attuned to the pulse of the industry, I immerse myself in the global electronic music community, regularly attending industry events, networking with fellow artists, and exploring online platforms to discover emerging talents and cutting-edge production techniques. Embracing new technologies and production tools is essential to staying ahead in this dynamic field and informed approach to staying updated on new music trends and technologies. Staying updated on the latest harm reduction tips globally it is essential to engage with diverse sources, including reputable organizations, community-based initiatives, and evidence-based frameworks to ensure a comprehensive and informed approach to harm reduction practices. This multifaceted strategy underscores my commitment to remaining at the forefront of the ever-evolving music industry and ensures that my artistic vision remains innovative, relevant and resonates within the contemporary musical landscape.

SheDJs: Do you have any advice for aspiring DJs looking to break into the scene or enhance their skills?

Aspiring DJs embarking on their journey should embrace relentless dedication to their craft, recognizing that mastery is a continual process of growth and refinement. By investing time and effort into honing your skills, DJs can cultivate a solid foundation upon which to build your artistic identity and prowess. An unwavering self-belief and a commitment to authenticity are pivotal in navigating the competitive landscape of the music industry. Embrace your unique identity and perspective, and use it to fuel your creativity. Network persistently, seek mentorship, and never underestimate the power of resilience in the face of adversity.

It's essential to continuously refine your skills, push boundaries, and stay true to your artistic vision. Cultivating resilience will enable them to weather adversity, learn from setbacks, and emerge stronger.

SheDJs: What's next for you in terms of projects, collaborations, or upcoming gigs?

Looking ahead, I have ventured into exciting collaborations with media outlets such as DJane Magazine and SheDJs Global. These partnerships signify a commitment to amplifying the voices of underrepresented individuals within the industry, underscoring my dedication to fostering inclusivity and diversity in the music scene.

By providing opportunities for diverse voices to be heard and celebrated, these initiatives seek to catalyze meaningful change and foster a more inclusive and equitable music community.

In a significant shift, I have made the decision to step back from the Canadian festival scene for the upcoming summer, marking the first time in a decade. This intentional break allows me to redirect my energy towards refining my sound and delving deep into the realm of music production. This period of introspection and creativity is pivotal as I set the stage for the next phase of Moonchild, paving the way for an evolution in my artistic expression and musical offerings.