Words: Theo Thompson, Images: Press shots and Orson Salha
Matty Chiabi’s journey into the world of electronic music and broadcasting is one built on passion, perseverance and a deep connection to her roots. From the vibrant, multicultural streets of South London, she has grown into a formidable force within the music industry. As a DJ, broadcaster and one-quarter of the celebrated all-female power house ‘Girls Don’t Sync’, Matty has carved out a space where her diverse musical influences can thrive, with her bold, authentic personality shining through.
Matty’s love for music began at a young age, nurtured in a setting where a plethora of sounds were constantly flowing. “Growing up in an African household in South London, I was exposed to so many genres: Afro beats, dancehall, garage, R&B,” she shares. “It’s hard for me to pin down one genre because I’ve always loved so many different sounds.” This eclectic mix of influences has shaped Matty’s unique approach to music, allowing her to blend cultures seamlessly and carve her own path as a DJ.
Her story truly resonates when you witness her energy first hand, particularly in performances like that of the monumental B2B with Yemz at The Underground in Bristol for the EC2A 5 year anniversary party. Speaking with her both moments pre and post revealed the grounded yet powerful confidence that fuels her on-stage presence. “I just do what I do,” Matty says with a sense of ease. “It’s frustrating when people try to pigeonhole me into one sound, but I just don’t care. What matters is how the crowd responds.”
It’s this unwavering self-belief that has allowed Matty to thrive in a space where many women, particularly Black Women, often feel side lined. The gender and cultural divides within the music industry are not lost on her. “I walk into a room, and it’s usually full of men. Most of the time, I’m not fazed until something happens, like a comment is made, or my safety is compromised. That’s when I realise, I’m the only woman here.” Despite these challenges, Matty approaches these situations with a level of confidence that’s as innate as it is necessary. “As a Black woman, I go into a room with my head held high because I know, statistically, I shouldn’t be there.”
Matty’s unapologetic confidence is a cornerstone of her journey. Yet, she is equally aware of the complexities and hardships that accompany her success. The creative industry is often demotivating, and burnout is a real concern. But Matty pushes through, always striving to reach new heights. “My younger self would think I’m so cool. But she’d also say: ‘go harder.’ I think we could all push a bit harder, stop worrying about what people think, and just focus on doing what we love.”
This mindset has not only shaped her career but also her role as a leader and role model. Through her radio work, Matty has become a trusted voice for her listeners. From hosting her afternoon show on Capital Dance, with over 478,000 weekly listeners, to co-hosting The Dance UK Show with Amazon Music, she continues to reach new audiences. Matty’s charisma and relatability have earned her the respect of peers and fans alike. As she mentions in our conversation, “I’ve always loved performing, whether it’s through music or talking. It’s just who I am.”
But beyond the accolades and appearances at festivals like Glastonbury and Parklife, Matty’s true impact lies in her commitment to pushing boundaries. With ‘Girls Don’t Sync’, she continues to break new ground, both in her sound and in her mission to elevate women within the electronic music scene. “I want to see more women headlining, more women producing. I want Black and Brown women to take up more space,” emphasising the importance of inclusivity and representation. “When we talk about feminism, we can’t ignore the experiences of Black and Brown women. We need to make space for us.”
Matty’s dedication to her craft and her community has created a ripple effect, one that reaches far beyond her immediate circle. She recalls a message she received from a woman in Ireland, inspired by Matty’s journey and eager to show that women like herself can excel in electronic music. “It’s so nice to know I’m having that effect,” she says with a smile, a testament to the power of representation.
Reflecting on where she hopes to be in five years, Matty is grounded yet hopeful. “I want to be just as happy and fulfilled as I am now,” Her passion for what she does is clear; whether it’s commanding a stage, curating a radio show or advocating for a more inclusive industry, she is in it for the long haul. “I don’t need to be defined by one thing. I want to keep exploring, keep growing and keep enjoying every step of the journey,” she adds, summing up the mindset that has taken her from a young girl in South London to one of the most exciting voices in music today.
Matty Chiabi’s story is one of resilience, passion and an unrelenting drive to push past societal norms. She is more than just a DJ. She is a force who continues to shape the music industry in her image, a true testament to the power of staying true to oneself. As she said, “I’m where I am because I deserve to be here,” and the world is just beginning to see the full extent of her potential.
Follow more of Matty’s journey HERE
