As the music industry continues to grow and evolve, the rise of female DJs is a phenomenon deserving of both celebration and serious reflection.
Recently, British fashion icon Naomi Campbell made waves by stepping into the world of DJing, igniting a surge of reactions across social media platforms.
While many applauded her new venture, others questioned the legitimacy of her entry into a space that has long been dominated by men.
Comments varied from "Amazing how anyone can become a DJ these days," to jokes like, "Naomi Campbell becoming a DJ is an interesting retirement choice."
Naomi Campbell becoming a Dj is an interesting retirement choice…. pic.twitter.com/NuPBeTCz78
While Campbell isn’t alone in facing scrutiny - local celebrities like Dineo Ranaka, Cyan Boujee, and Thuli Phongolo have also drawn judgment for their DJ careers.
However, such criticisms often ignore a pivotal reality: anyone can become a DJ, but it is the respect for the craft that makes a true artist.
The growing number of female DJs, in particular, is a welcome development. Gone are the days when the industry was exclusively a male stronghold.
With artists such as DJ Zinhle and DJ Cndo leading the charge, we are witnessing a new era where women are claiming their rightful spaces behind the decks, fostering a more inclusive atmosphere in what has traditionally been a male-dominated industry.
Looking deeper into Campbell's journey reveals that her entry into DJing, while perhaps unexpected to some, is not without precedent. Beyond her illustrious career as a supermodel, she has previously dabbled in the music world, releasing her solo album, "Baby Woman”, in 1994.
Additionally, her role as a special advisor for Gamma, a music company founded by industry expert Larry Jackson, highlights her long-standing connection to music. Campbell is not merely leveraging her celebrity; she possesses a genuine understanding of the industry and a passion for sound.
As we consider the journey of trailblazers like Uncle Waffles, who also faced scepticism upon her entry into the music scene but has since attained significant international acclaim, there is much to be optimistic about.
These women are not just expanding the boundaries of what it means to be a DJ; they are redefining the landscape with their unique sounds and captivating performances, demonstrating that talent and dedication know no gender boundaries.
As someone entrenched in the DJ world for over a decade, I urge aspiring DJs to approach the craft with the utmost respect. DJing embodies more than just playing songs; it is about weaving a narrative through sound.
To do this effectively, aspiring artists must immerse themselves in mastering their skills, delving into the depths of music, and establishing meaningful connections with audiences.
For those looking to elevate their DJing game, consider these foundational tips:
- Invest time in learning: It’s crucial to grasp the fundamentals, from beat matching to live mixing.
- Find your unique sound: Explore different styles and find what resonates with you, while also being open to experimentation.
- Practice regularly: The more you mix and experiment, the better you will become.
- Engage with your audience: Building a connection can enhance the overall experience for both the DJ and the crowd.
- Respect the craft: Appreciate the history of DJing and the work that goes into every performance.
The rise of black female DJs transcends mere representation; it is a movement aimed at redefining sound and space in the industry. As these women step into the spotlight, they reclaim and reshape narratives around identity and innovation.
Their growing prominence challenges existing gender stereotypes while expanding creative boundaries, paving the way for the next generation of aspiring female DJs and music lovers.