House music, with its pulsating beats and infectious melodies, has been captivating audiences worldwide for decades. Behind the decks, a wave of talented DJs has emerged, breaking barriers and redefining the electronic music scene. In this blog post, we celebrate the remarkable contributions of the top 10 female DJs from across the globe, who have been instrumental in shaping the house music landscape and inspiring countless fans and aspiring artists.
From the underground clubs of Chicago to the vibrant scenes of Egypt and beyond, these extraordinary women have carved their path to success through skillful mixing, unparalleled creativity, and a deep passion for their craft. Through their captivating performances and groundbreaking productions, they have risen to prominence, earning their rightful place among the most respected figures in the industry.
DRĖĖĖMY is a remarkable house music DJ hailing from Egypt.
DREEEMY embodies the essence of a true house music DJ and more- seamlessly blending various creative roles into one harmonious symphony. DRĖĖĖMY is not merely a DJ or music producer, but a versatile performer who encompasses the roles of vocalist, spoken word poet, multi-instrumentalist, sound designer, and arts & culture curator. With a unique ability to transcend genres, she stands at the vanguard of music innovation, skillfully fusing ancient melodies with futuristic beats.
By exploring the depths of Egyptian heritage and infusing it with contemporary musical expressions, this visionary artist has created a soundscape that resonates with listeners on a profound level. Through her diverse skill set, DRĖĖĖMY brings together a tapestry of sounds, uniting the rich traditions of the past with the limitless possibilities of the future.
From behind the decks, DRĖĖĖMY takes audiences on an enchanting voyage through time and space. Her DJ sets are carefully crafted sonic narratives, where each track serves as a chapter in a mesmerizing story. With impeccable precision and a deep understanding of rhythm, she curates an immersive experience that transcends the boundaries of conventional music.
DRĖĖĖMY ON SOUNDCLOUD | https://soundcloud.com/dreeemy
DRĖĖĖMY ON RESIDENT ADVISOR | https://ra.co/dj/dreeemy
ALDUNYA, The Goddess (Official Music Video by DRĖĖĖMY ) | https://youtu.be/K_-UW46llpo
DRĖĖĖMY JOINS TAMBOR CRUISE EGYPT LATER THIS YEAR | https://www.tamborcruise.com
SABINE BLAIZIN is dedicated to showcasing and celebrating the richness of African diasporic music.
Blaizin has embarked on various creative endeavors, including Brooklyn Mecca, Cumbancha, and Oyasound. Among these, Brooklyn Mecca stands as a monthly event that has earned the reputation of being the birthplace of "Grassroots Dance Culture."
Blaizin skillfully blends a diverse range of genres, including Global Soul, House, Afrotech, Afrobeat, and Haitian Roots, among others. Her remarkable talent has taken her to numerous cities across the United States, such as NYC, Atlanta, St. Louis, Memphis, Chicago, Omaha, Boston, New Orleans, Miami, LA/Oakland, NJ, Washington DC, Dallas, and Denver. She has also had the privilege of performing internationally in Canada, Senegal, Haiti, Cuba, and Mexico.
Sabine's exceptional talent as a house DJ was acknowledged in 2014 when she was included in MediaServiceNyc's list of the Most Respected House DJs for her innovative contributions. In June of the same year, she launched her first installment of "Lakay Se Lakay: Home Is Home," a series of conversations with Haitian electronic artists. Sabine also organized the No Passport (NYC Edition) party in collaboration with the inaugural NYC Haitian Arts & Culture festival Selebrayson!, presented by Haiti Cultural Exchange.
Sabine's unprecedented skills, and dedication to culture and education have led her to be selected as the featured DJ for the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art's 50th Anniversary celebration. With her work, she aspires to contribute to new scholarship, exploring the realms of music, culture, and spirituality through the lenses of the African and Haitian diasporas.
You can see Sabine later this year as a part of the TAMBOR CRUISE 2023 EGYPT HOUSE MUSIC FESTIVAL
OYASOUND by SABINE BLAIZIN | http://www.oyasound.com/
SABINE BLAIZIN ON TRAXSOURCE | https://www.traxsource.com/artist/204376/sabine-blaizin
SABINE'S ICONIC BOILER ROOM NYC SET | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jZRwHkt5vKE
BLAIZIN JOINS TAMBOR CRUISE EGYPT LATER THIS YEAR | https://www.tamborcruise.com
DJ LeSOUL has immersed herself in the house music industry for nearly a decade.
LeSoul is known internationally for her ability to weave intricate tales of spirituality into the mesmerizing melodies of Afro house and Afro tech music. Her performances have set dance floors ablaze, captivating audiences not only in South Africa but also beyond its borders.
Hailing from the bustling township of KwaMashu in KwaZulu-Natal, Nonkululeko Mdlalose, known as DJ LeSoul, is not only a talented DJ and producer but also a captivating radio host. Her musical odyssey began in the church, where she unearthed her passion for the piano and nurtured a profound affection for diverse musical instruments. With an insatiable thirst for knowledge, she modestly describes herself as a musical Einstein, ceaselessly seeking novel sounds and experiences.
Over the years, DJ LeSoul has wholeheartedly embraced the allure of Afro tech, a love that shines through in her latest album, "Soul Awakening," which graced the world in 2022. Her expertise has paved the way for remarkable collaborations and performances alongside celebrated South African Afro house artists like Black Coffee, Monique Bingham, and Ruff Gum. Notably, her Boiler Room set left an indelible mark, solidifying her status as a rising star renowned for her seamless mixing and captivating track selection.
DJ LeSoul's set on the Boiler Room is considered iconic due to her exceptional mixing skills, her impeccable track selection, the energy she brought to the stage, and her ability to showcase her individuality as an artist. It was a performance that transcended the boundaries of a typical DJ set - an immersive musical journey that left a lasting impression on all who experienced it.
Nurtured by a single mother, DJ LeSoul has always embodied a spirited sense of responsibility and vibrancy. Her musical journey took flight in the church choir at the Light for Africa Bible College, where her affinity for live instruments, especially the piano, blossomed. From a tender age, she explored diverse artistic pursuits, self-taught in the realms of drawing, painting, sketching, and the performing arts. Her energetic and multifaceted nature has set a lofty standard for female artists, fearlessly crafting her own musical creations.
In 2010, DJ LeSoul's passion for house music ignited when she bore witness to a mesmerizing female DJ captivating the crowd with her extraordinary skills. This encounter served as an inspiration, propelling her on a personal quest to acquire her own equipment and forge an individual path behind the decks. Her distinctive DJing style resonates deeply with audiences, garnering widespread acclaim. In 2007, DJ LeSoul's exceptional talent garnered recognition when she emerged victorious in a national art competition hosted by WESSA (Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa) and the Department of Art and Culture.
DJ LeSOUL ON RESIDENT ADVISOR | https://ra.co/dj/djlesoul/past-events
DJ LeSOUL DJANE MAG INTERVIEW | https://djanemag.com/djanes/dj-lesoul
DJ KARABA'S life has always been intricately intertwined with the transformative power of music and movement.
Her music exudes a pulsating and fiery energy- There are no moments of respite or deceleration. Her passion for making people dance and connecting them with the music she feels is infectious and all-encompassing. The unbridled euphoria derived from such wholehearted devotion to sound is truly remarkable, immersing oneself in a fervent celebration. "I embody intensity in everything I do, particularly in my music," Karaba enthusiastically proclaims. "My purpose on this planet is to inspire individuals, especially young black girls, and demonstrate that they have the power to achieve anything they set their minds to. I myself have risen from humble beginnings, but my artistic soul has guided me to where I stand today."
Born in Grenoble, France, Karaba embarked on a nomadic existence as an immigrant, eventually settling in Montreal at the tender age of seven. It was during her formative years that she discovered dance, igniting a passion that would shape her artistic path and become her first love. Many of her early memories include of cruising through the scenic landscapes of France's southern region in a camping car, with Motown legends like The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, Earth, Wind and Fire, and Barry White providing the melodic backdrop, to the vibrant beats of French rap and Congolese artists like Koffi Olomide, Awilo Longomba, Papa Wemba, and Passi resonating with her cultural roots, Karaba's journey has been an exploration of rhythm and expression.
Continually seeking new horizons, Karaba ventured to key musical hubs such as New York and Los Angeles, where she danced for prominent figures in pop music like Drake, Camila Cabello, and Selena Gomez. Her enchanting performances graced numerous music videos and award shows, solidifying her presence in the industry. The act of controlling music with her fingertips brought Karaba an unparalleled connection to the very essence of sound. It was a transcendent feeling that defied description. The foundations of her life—shaped by pop music, afro house, and afro beats—melded seamlessly with her innate understanding of how bodies can move in harmony with these captivating rhythms. Karaba's mixes became intricate puzzles, meticulously pieced together with tracks that resonated with her and seamlessly told a story. Each mix had to blend flawlessly, evoking a sense of celebration. As a dancer at heart, she aimed to move people the same way the music moved her.
Her meticulous attention to incorporating the vibrant sounds of African nations stems from one of her early experiences as a DJ. While spinning a house track, Karaba unraveled the myriad ways in which African music was interwoven into these compositions. "The more I delved into my research, the more I discovered DJs who were playing music from my homeland. That's when everything shifted for me. I unearthed music from the vast expanse of the African continent and realized that I had discovered my niche, my purpose as a musician—to share with others the melodic tapestry of my people, my nation," she divulges.
Karaba's fervent hope is that her dedication to embracing and incorporating music from various African countries will ignite curiosity among her audience. She aspires to inspire a deeper appreciation for the diverse and profound musical heritage that permeates the continent. In an era where musical offerings are readily available, Karaba emphasizes the importance of delving deeper, conducting research, and recognizing the origins and styles that define each country's unique sound. The immense influence of Africa on global music demands that its talented artists be given the recognition and platform they deserve.
Among her most cherished mixes is "Ah ça c'est Karaba," which not only serves as her DJ slogan but also remains a daily source of inspiration. The influence of African countries' rich sounds became an integral part of Karaba's artistry during her early experiences as a DJ. It was through these explorations that she realized DJs worldwide were incorporating the music of her homeland. This realization marked a turning point, unveiling her true calling as a musician: to share the music of her people, her country, and the entire African continent with the world.
Currently, DJ Karaba is engrossed in her own project—an EP that serves as a fusion of her creative vision, passion for movement, and a desire to master music production. Collaborating with Stephen Ramsay from Young Galaxy, a key mentor and collaborator, Karaba finds profound personal fulfillment in this endeavor. Two years into her full-time commitment to music, this project stands as one of her most rewarding and enriching experiences to date.
DJ KARABA'S WEBSITE | https://www.djkaraba.com/
DJ KARABA ON RESIDENT ADVISOR | https://ra.co/dj/djkaraba/biography
DJ KARABA ON BANDCAMP | https://djkaraba.bandcamp.com/album/d-livrance
LIZWI'S journey unfolds like a mesmerizing odyssey, an immersive experience that captivates the senses and stirs the soul.
Rooted in her Zulu ancestral heritage, Lizwi's music weaves together a tapestry of vibrant dance rhythms, resonant harmonies, and profound emotions that embody the essence of Africa itself.
As she takes the stage, Lizwi assumes her role as the melodic conduit, a revered figure who channels faith and spirituality through her ethereal incantations. Her presence alone casts a spell upon the audience, who are transported to a realm where the boundaries of reality and imagination blur. Her unique timbre, rhythmic patterns, and soulful vocal expressions bring an enchanting quality to any song. With their heartfelt delivery and melodic storytelling, these vocals evoke a range of emotions, from joy and celebration to longing and introspection. Lizwi's range and raw authenticity is a testament to the human experience, touching hearts and stirring spirits.
With her guitar in hand, she becomes a virtuoso, effortlessly drawing inspiration from the mythical echoes of Busi Mhlongo, a legendary figure in African music. In every note, she embodies the brilliance of her extraordinary continent, evoking a sense of wonder and awe.
Lizwi's vocal and musical creations are carefully crafted as an homage to her African roots. Each melody is a vessel that carries the majesty and expanse of the continent, whispering stories of ancient traditions and vibrant tales. The listeners find themselves immersed in a world drenched in enigma, where the past collides with the present and the future unfolds in harmony with the rhythms of Africa. Her passion is abundantly evident in all of her works, and can be witnesses in her latest house music collaboration "Immbube" - a produced by Tambor Party founder Stan Zeff.
Embarking on this melodic expedition, Lizwi extends an invitation to her audience, urging them to delve deep into the realm of expression and embrace personal growth and exploration. Just as one of Africa's luminaries once proclaimed, African music has the power to uplift and give voice to even the most tragic narratives. Lizwi, as a symbol of faith, solace, and spiritual resonance, carries forward this noble vision. Her mission is to guide her listeners on an enlightening voyage, unearthing the rich tapestry of her Zulu ancestry and bringing it to life through her music.
IMMBUBE BY LIZWI AND STAN ZEFF | https://tambor-music.bandcamp.com/album/immbube
LIZWI ON TRAXSOURCE | https://www.traxsource.com/artist/237322/lizwi
LIZWI YOUTUBE | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaZW2SJPSX2_mfaUWYrj5Ww
GEORGIA CEE is an Italian-born, NYC-based artist whose singing and songwriting talent is a testament to her soulful spirit and vibrant creativity.
(While Georgia isn't a DJ-- her incredible vocals and songwriting prowess have elevated house music hits across the world in such an impacting way--)
With a profound love for Neo Soul and RnB, Cee fearlessly intertwines these genres, giving birth to her unique and flourishing Afro House style. Prepare to be captivated as her voice resonates deep within your soul.
Georgia has an incredibly rich history in the house music scene. Her melodies have graced the airwaves through esteemed record labels such as Columbia Records, Ura, Tribe Records, Strictly Rhythm, Tony Records, Jelly Bean Soul, Soul Sun Soul Music, Nervous Records, and Diridim. These collaborations have solidified her place among the industry's rising stars, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of listeners worldwide.
Venturing into diverse musical landscapes, Georgia has embarked on remarkable collaborations that stir the imagination. Together with legendary Shelter DJ, Timmy Regisford, she shines brightly on his album "at the Club" with the enchanting track "How Does It Feels." Ura proudly presents her song "So Bad," showcasing her raw talent and magnetic presence.
But the magic doesn't stop there. Georgia's creative journey intertwines with the gifted Brooklyn-based DJ-producer Mikki Afflick, also known as "The House Empress." This powerful alliance has yielded an array of soul-stirring tunes, from the uplifting "Feeling Blessed" to their latest masterpiece, "Queen Of Hearts." The resonance of their collaboration is felt in every beat, uniting hearts and igniting passions.
Music with a purpose becomes Georgia's anthem. In 2021, she released the heartfelt "Queen of Samburu" as part of the "Set For Love EP," a project close to her heart. Not only does the EP showcase her artistry, but 100% of the sales contribute to building a classroom for the children of the Samburu Tribe in Kenya. Join her noble cause and immerse yourself in the euphoria of music that makes a difference.
Witnessing the evolution of Georgia's artistry is a privilege. 2021 saw the release of her first song in the Zulu language, "Ungalalela," on the iconic Nervous Records. As she diligently learns Zulu and delves into new sonic territories, she fearlessly embraces growth and connection, expanding her musical horizons while nurturing her fans' souls.
Collaboration knows no bounds for Georgia, as she joins forces with the exceptional African DJ-producer AIMO. Together, they unleash their passion in the captivating track "Fire me Up," an anthem that sets dancefloors ablaze. Prepare for the Dub Mix on AIMO's "Evolution III," an exhilarating journey that leaves no soul untouched.
In 2022, Georgia's musical path intersects with the legendary DJ and Grammy award-winning record producer David Morales. Their creative synergy unfolds in the exquisite track "Uthando," a testament to their shared dedication to the evolution of music. Bound together by their love for artistry, they continue to create enchanting harmonies, marking milestones on David Morales' acclaimed label, Diridim. A symbiotic journey that transcends boundaries, forging a lasting legacy.
Georgia's musical odyssey is not only a testament to her artistry but also an invitation to immerse yourself in a world where genres converge and emotions run deep. Let her voice be the soundtrack of your soul, resonating with every beat, reminding us of the power of human connection through the universal language of music.
GEORGIA CEE AND DAVID MORALES "UTHANDO" | https://youtu.be/O-5gQt6FLGo
"UNGALALELA" BY GEORGIA CEE | https://youtu.be/5yoanjV_7k0
GEORGIA CEE ON TRAXSOURCE | https://www.traxsource.com/artist/616/georgia-cee
MIKKI AFFLICK is renowned for her contributions as one of the most diverse and adept international House Music Dee Jays in the world-
Originally from Colon, Panama but raised in Brooklyn, New York, Mikki Afflick hails from a family deeply rooted in the realms of music, singing, and dancing. Afflick has been captivating audiences as a Dee Jay since the tender age of twelve. Over the last decade Afflick has made her mark on the House Music world gaining recognition as a remixer, visual media specialist, and a distinguished Grammy member producer.
In her interviews, Afflick attributes her love for Music and Deejaying to her father, who ran an after-hours nightclub in the 1970’s- saying “"My dad is one of the biggest influences in my music career”
"My dad was in a Doo-Wop band, he was a baritone, and so while he was cleaning he would always be humming, and his bass lines just stay in my head." (part of an interview for questions and artists https://questionsandartists.com/mikki-afflick/) – her father also gave Mikki her first DJ opportunity at the age of 9 when the Dee Jay for his nightclub was a no show .-
During her early years, Mikki gained recognition when her edits caught the attention of Larry Levan, who famously showcased one of her remixes at the renowned Paradise Garage.
In 2009, Mikki Afflick founded Soul Sun Soul Music, a record label that played a pivotal role in introducing Afro tracks before the genre of Afro House had even been defined. Her label became a platform for multiple chart-topping singles and the highly acclaimed album "Vanity," which secured the number one spot.
Known for being a house music DJ who is unafraid to push boundaries, Mikki's distinct sound, known as "An AfflickteD Soul Mix," seamlessly blends Afro, Latin, Soulful, and Tek elements from across the world. The label's music has resonated with prominent international DJs in the house music scene, including Grammy award winners such as Louie Vega, and Maurice Joshua.
Notably, Mikki's productions have been remixed by Grammy-winning Dee Jay and producer David Morales, resulting in hit tracks like "Dream Catcher" and "Thunder Drum Dance" on Nervous Records. Additionally, she collaborated with Janine "Sugah Lyrics" Lyons on her label, creating the thought-provoking track "America's Real Pandemic."
Recognized by the esteemed Bembe Awards in 2020, Mikki Afflick secured her place as a top-tier Dee Jay. Her captivating sets seamlessly blend various genres, including Afro, Deep, Soulful House, World, and Dance Classics, ensuring an enthralling experience for her audience.
MIKKI AFFLICK'S WEBSITE | https://www.mikkiafflick.com/bio.html
MIKKI AFFLICK ON TRAXSOURCE | https://www.traxsource.com/artist/18263/mikki-afflick
MIKKI AFFLICK JOINS TAMBOR CRUISE EGYPT LATER THIS YEAR | https://www.tamborcruise.com
In a world where borders blur and cultures intertwine, female house music DJs have emerged as the global groove goddesses, uniting people from all corners of the Earth through the universal language of music.
Their infectious beats and soul-stirring melodies transcend language barriers, while their unwavering passion for their craft ignites dancefloors worldwide. With their powerful presence and unwavering talent, these incredible individuals not only entertain but also inspire, breaking down stereotypes and paving the way for inclusivity and empowerment.
As their beats echo across continents, the world pulses to the rhythm of their united energy, reminding us of the unifying power of music and the indomitable spirit of women. Let us celebrate these trailblazers, for they are the driving force behind a global movement, harnessing the transformative power of sound to create a world where diversity, connection, and love are the anthems that resonate within us all.
(If the global groove and empowering stories of female house music DJs resonated with your soul, get ready for more! Stay tuned and subscribe to our blog for more captivating content, celebrating the vibrant world of house music and the inspiring artists who make it soar. May the beats continue to guide you on an exhilarating journey of discovery, connection, and pure sonic bliss -- Peace and Blessings)
Great read 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾