SICKY
SICKY

TOTAL LOOK UNRELEASED COLLECTION OF A BETTER MISTAKE × ELECTRONIC BEATS

TOTAL LOOK UNRELEASED COLLECTION OF A BETTER MISTAKE × ELECTRONIC BEATS

TOTAL LOOK UNRELEASED COLLECTION OF A BETTER MISTAKE × ELECTRONIC BEATS

In conversation w/ DESIREE

OCTOBER 4, 2023 → WORDS ADRIÁN GOMIS EXPÓSITO


In the pulsating heart of South Africa’s vibrant music scene, one artist stands out as a trailblazer, pushing boundaries and breaking norms. This interview delves into the world of Desiree, a South African DJ and music producer whose journey through the music industry is a testament to their unwavering passion and dedication. From her humble beginnings in a Johannesburg township to becoming a recognized name in the global music scene, our conversation reveals the artistic evolution, the creative process, and the profound impact of the work. Additionally, we explore how they use their platform to raise awareness about gender and sex diversity and the role of fashion in expressing identity. Join us as we unravel the story and aspirations of this remarkable artist.

As a South African DJ and producer, I wonder what got you into the music industry in the first place. How did your interest in music and DJing begin?

For those who have known me from a young age, it’s evident that I’ve always had a deep appreciation and obsession with music. Digging for records has been a natural inclination of mine. My curiosity peaked during high school when I discovered alternative rock and electronica. Growing up in a black township in Johannesburg, this type of music was quite different from what the people around me were listening to. Consequently, I found myself becoming a musical tastemaker among my friends and family, introducing them to soundscapes they might not have discovered otherwise.

Fast forward to my university days in Braamfontein, which I consider the epicentre of art and youth culture in South Africa. It was there that I stumbled upon house music. Frequenting bars and clubs in the area gave me a dance music education, which I merged with my alternative and electronic influences, resulting in a unique musical palette that caught the attention of local promoters. The rest, as they say, is history.


When creating a new set or performance, what is your usual creative process? How do you come up with such incredible sessions?

The art of performing, especially in DJing, is about improvisation. While extensive preparation is valuable, the real magic happens when you can read the room and select tracks on the fly. My preparation comes from being a lifelong music lover, constantly listening to countless tracks that I handpick for my collection. It’s not something I do intentionally; I’ve always been naturally curious and inclined to discover new music. So, in a way, I’ve been preparing for my performances throughout my life.


Do you have an alter ego for stage performances?
Is there any transformation in your work?

My music and performances are deeply influenced by my life experiences. There’s a layer of alter ego due to the energy surge on stage, but I remain true to my authentic self. Some alterations do arise during the creative process, and this is my way of combatting stage fright.


I understand you identify as an intersex woman and you’re passionate about raising awareness about gender and sex diversity. What conversations do you believe society needs to have to normalize diversity? How do you contribute to this awareness?

My existence as an intersex woman challenges the gender binary and serves as a living example of diversity. I advocate for the acknowledgement of diversity in all its forms. Many people are still unaware that intersex individuals exist, and they continue to be excluded from discussions about gender and diversity, which doesn't align with our goal of normalizing diversity.

Personally, I strive to raise awareness on this topic through my various platforms. My music is heavily inspired by my experiences as an intersex woman, and I also support grassroots organizations like Intersex South Africa to advocate for the rights and visibility of intersex individuals.


Fashion is a significant part of your life. How do you express yourself through clothing and different aesthetics? Do you believe fashion plays a vital role in expressing one’s identity?

My clothing choices are integral to my identity. When I dress well, it boosts my confidence, even on a bad day. My music tastes are eclectic, and so is my style. I draw inspiration from different eras and moods. Fashion should be fun, so sometimes you’ll find me draped in all-black and neutral tones as if I just stepped off an Anne Demeulemeester runway. Other times, I enjoy wearing bright and colourful ensembles inspired by my African heritage, like Atelier Ndingo, Rich Mnisi, and Thebe Magugu. Occasionally, I embrace futuristic styles, like donning this foulard from A Better Mistake × Electronic Beats with cyberpunk references.


Regarding your plans for the future, do you have any specific career goals? What are your next steps, and what are your hopes for the future?

My focus for the future is to leave a legacy that can inspire artists who may not have the same privileges as their Western counterparts. I aim to use my platform to provide opportunities for them to showcase their talents to the world and to encourage young people to embrace each other through various mediums of expression.



PHOTOGRAPHY GUILLEM LÓPEZ NICOLAU FOR TELEKOM ELECTRONIC BEATS
HAIR & MAKE-UP EAVAN DERBYSHIRE
CREATIVE PRODUCTION LIA GELD / OZMOZE

TOTAL LOOK UNRELEASED COLLECTION OF A BETTER MISTAKE × ELECTRONIC BEATS

TOTAL LOOK UNRELEASED COLLECTION OF A BETTER MISTAKE × ELECTRONIC BEATS

TOTAL LOOK UNRELEASED COLLECTION OF A BETTER MISTAKE × ELECTRONIC BEATS

In conversation w/ DESIREE

OCTOBER 4, 2023 → WORDS ADRIÁN GOMIS EXPÓSITO


In the pulsating heart of South Africa’s vibrant music scene, one artist stands out as a trailblazer, pushing boundaries and breaking norms. This interview delves into the world of Desiree, a South African DJ and music producer whose journey through the music industry is a testament to their unwavering passion and dedication. From their humble beginnings in a Johannesburg township to becoming a recognized name in the global music scene, our conversation reveals the artistic evolution, the creative process, and the profound impact of the work. Additionally, we explore how they use their platform to raise awareness about gender and sex diversity and the role of fashion in expressing identity. Join us as we unravel the story and aspirations of this remarkable artist.

As a South African DJ and producer, I wonder what got you into the music industry in the first place. How did your interest in music and DJing begin?

For those who have known me from a young age, it’s evident that I’ve always had a deep appreciation and obsession with music. Digging for records has been a natural inclination of mine. My curiosity peaked during high school when I discovered alternative rock and electronica. Growing up in a black township in Johannesburg, this type of music was quite different from what the people around me were listening to. Consequently, I found myself becoming a musical tastemaker among my friends and family, introducing them to soundscapes they might not have discovered otherwise.

Fast forward to my university days in Braamfontein, which I consider the epicentre of art and youth culture in South Africa. It was there that I stumbled upon house music. Frequenting bars and clubs in the area gave me a dance music education, which I merged with my alternative and electronic influences, resulting in a unique musical palette that caught the attention of local promoters. The rest, as they say, is history.


When creating a new set or performance, what is your usual creative process? How do you come up with such incredible sessions?

The art of performing, especially in DJing, is about improvisation. While extensive preparation is valuable, the real magic happens when you can read the room and select tracks on the fly. My preparation comes from being a lifelong music lover, constantly listening to countless tracks that I handpick for my collection. It’s not something I do intentionally; I’ve always been naturally curious and inclined to discover new music. So, in a way, I’ve been preparing for my performances throughout my life.


Do you have an alter ego for stage performances? Is there any transformation in your work?

My music and performances are deeply influenced by my life experiences. There’s a layer of alter ego due to the energy surge on stage, but I remain true to my authentic self. Some alterations do arise during the creative process, and this is my way of combatting stage fright.


I understand you identify as an intersex woman and you’re passionate about raising awareness about gender and sex diversity. What conversations do you believe society needs to have to normalize diversity? How do you contribute to this awareness?

My existence as an intersex woman challenges the gender binary and serves as a living example of diversity. I advocate for the acknowledgement of diversity in all its forms. Many people are still unaware that intersex individuals exist, and they continue to be excluded from discussions about gender and diversity, which doesn't align with our goal of normalizing diversity.

Personally, I strive to raise awareness on this topic through my various platforms. My music is heavily inspired by my experiences as an intersex woman, and I also support grassroots organizations like Intersex South Africa to advocate for the rights and visibility of intersex individuals.


Fashion is a significant part of your life. How do you express yourself through clothing and different aesthetics? Do you believe fashion plays a vital role in expressing one’s identity?

My clothing choices are integral to my identity. When I dress well, it boosts my confidence, even on a bad day. My music tastes are eclectic, and so is my style. I draw inspiration from different eras and moods. Fashion should be fun, so sometimes you’ll find me draped in all-black and neutral tones as if I just stepped off an Anne Demeulemeester runway. Other times, I enjoy wearing bright and colourful ensembles inspired by my African heritage, like Atelier Ndingo, Rich Mnisi, and Thebe Magugu. Occasionally, I embrace futuristic styles, like donning this foulard from A Better Mistake × Electronic Beats with cyberpunk references.


Regarding your plans for the future, do you have any specific career goals? What are your next steps, and what are your hopes for the future?

My focus for the future is to leave a legacy that can inspire artists who may not have the same privileges as their Western counterparts. I aim to use my platform to provide opportunities for them to showcase their talents to the world and to encourage young people to embrace each other through various mediums of expression.



PHOTOGRAPHY GUILLEM LÓPEZ NICOLAU
FOR TELEKOM ELECTRONIC BEATS
HAIR & MAKE-UP EAVAN DERBYSHIRE
CREATIVE PRODUCTION LIA GELD / OZMOZE