Sisu

Formed from a want to build strength and community in the face of long-term exclusion from the dance music industry, Sisu were born right here at the Southbank Centre. They exist for artists at all stages of their musical journey, from those looking to discover new skills in a supportive environment, to those looking to step up to another level. 

‘Our workshop leaders have been absolutely integral to the growth of artists within the community’, explained Sisu’s Malissa. ‘Boosting confidence, teaching practical skills, being there post-workshop for any follow on advice, giving industry advice. Learning how to DJ is an all encompassing experience and to have a diverse range of experienced artists be there to support people beginning their journey as a DJ has been crucial. The growth of the artists that have attended our workshops, starting out for the first time, filled with fear trying to mix for the first time at a workshop in front of everyone, to creating their own spaces, playing festivals, forming incredibly strong friendships really inspires us’.

Among the Sisu alumni going onto greater things are Millie on Air, who’ll be playing Glastonbury this summer, and Melo who formed the incredibly important space Big Dyke Energy in 2019. And for the wider collective, their hard work also continues to pay off. ‘The more we grow and evolve, the more magic experiences we get to experience,’ continues Malissa. ‘As a community we see all sorts of magic opportunities happen each week. We have insane peak moments such as playing across the world in places such as Fabric, HOR radio, Los Angeles, Sneaky Petes, Terminal Festival – it is a really special list, week-in, week-out’.

Among this ever growing list of highlights, we wondered where performing as part of Christine and the Queens’ Meltdown would sit? ‘Honestly? It’s a real pinch-me moment!’ explains Watcha. ‘This festival is taking a huge, legendary arts venue and cramming it full of London’s most cutting edge queer talent. We live this scene in grassroots, DIY venues across the city every week, and having it platformed in this way is an acknowledgement of the unmatched, pioneering talent of our community’.

So what will they be bringing to the party? ‘We’re bringing together three queer DJs from the collective that f**k with gender and genres to curate a night of blends, edits and fiery, summery slagginess’. Now there’s a billing that doesn’t hold back. Sisu join Pecs – ‘This is our first time DJing alongside them, they’re so hot we’re gonna swoon, please catch us’ – for what looks set to be a fantastically fun Friday night. 

‘We always love playing and creating with the Southbank Centre as this is our birthplace… it’s an absolute honour to have such a cherished relationship’, Watcha wrapped up by telling us. Believe us, the honour is all ours.