The SheJay

Whilst some DJs prefer to specialise in one musical form, or a narrow band of genres, The SheJay platforms herself as being decidedly multi-genre. ‘I am inspired by the talent and passion of musicians.’ she told us. ‘I love everyone from Queen and David Bowie to Soul II Soul and Kraftwerk’. 

And that broad appreciation feeds into her DJing, where she cites DJs Jazzy Jeff and EZ as being influential masters of the craft. ‘It's more than playing music. It's reading the crowd and knowing how to adjust and adapt to the environment. I'm 23 years in and am continually inspired by new music and DJs that care about good music, about the art of mixing and catering to an audience without taking requests’.

Over her years behind the decks The SheJay has worked creatively with a breadth of artists including her partner, the illustrator and host Exhibit 69, with whom she founded Creative Class Citizens which brings together art, music and stories. As The SheJay explains, what she does is about ‘more than just music. It’s excellent tunes, individual style, art and the love of all people. Families have been created from two people meeting on a dance-floor. Music is the bridge. The icebreaker. The source’.

So what does The SheJay have in store for her appearance at Christine and the Queens’ Meltdown festival? ‘It is my aim to create a fun environment; to make you dance, sing and leave your worries at the entrance. Your feet will be sore from the dancing and your voice croaked from singing along to songs that made you fall in love with various genres. Dopamine will be released, making you feel happy. I'm not coming to play. Well I am and I'm not [laughs]’.

What is very evident is that The SheJay is as full of eager anticipation for her appearance on our Riverside Terrace as we are. ‘‘I’m excited! The Southbank Centre is a cultural landmark in the UK and it has kept its finger on the pulse with ever changing times. I am honoured to be able to play there with so many other talented people. Spreading good energy through music is food for the soul. These spaces are important as we can all interact and break down the barriers that hinder mankind.’

‘I'm looking forward to seeing a diverse set of people from different ages. I'm looking forward to seeing people relax, dance, explore, and most importantly, seeing smiles on faces while you dance. I have played and partied at the Southbank Centre on a few occasions, and they always bring fond memories of good times with amazing people; something to reminisce about during the colder months’.