Words: Theo Thompson
In the vibrant heart of the UK music scene, Yemz stands out as a dynamic presence, blending her rich heritage with an eclectic mix of musical influences to create a captivating tapestry of sound that resonates with listeners. Reflecting on her journey, Yemz recounts a childhood steeped in performance: “I was a theatre school kid, so I was always passionate about performance,” she recalls, her enthusiasm for the stage clear. This early love for expression; combined with her Nigerian roots, where percussion plays a central role, shaped her unique sound. “I’ve always loved drums, heavy drums, and just dancing,” recalling how her family, particularly her older sister, introduced her to UK Garage and Funky, genres that now characterise her sets. “My older sister grew up during the peak of UKG and UK Funky, sounds you can hear a lot when I play. She used to pick me up from school in her convertible, blasting Garage; I was just loving it as a five-year-old, unaware of what it was.” Yemz’s bond with music is deep-rooted, with memories of her father’s stacks of CD’s and the pirate music they would discover together at local markets, underscoring the fusion of her heritage and the vibrant sound system culture that has become an integral part of her identity.
Yemz’s venture into DJing began amidst the global pandemic, driven by a desire to revive the dance floors that had fallen silent. “During lockdown, I was bored; I missed going out, to the rave.” With borrowed decks, she started mixing at house parties, quickly finding her rhythm. “Honestly, it kind of just came naturally,” she reflects, and as she experimented in the close-knit setting of these gatherings, a performer emerged.
However, the transition from house parties to club performances was not without challenges. Yemz recalls her first club experience with a mix of nostalgia and trepidation. “I clanged so much,” she laughs, acknowledging that the learning curve was steep. Yet, it was through competitions like that hosted by Keep Hush where she gained significant exposure. “That set was a completely garage set… I think that kind of just launched me into the DJing world,” opening doors to esteemed platforms, she reflects.
Despite her undeniable talent, Yemz is acutely aware of the gender biases that persist in the music industry. “Sometimes, I encountered situations where security wouldn’t let me in, assuming I was just a friend,” she shares, highlighting the often patronising assumptions made about female DJs. “I think security needs to pattern up,” underscoring the need for greater awareness and education regarding gender dynamics within the scene. As she points out, “music is not binary, and the people who create it aren’t binary,” advocating for a more inclusive and accepting environment.
Yemz’s experiences are not isolated; many female and LGBTQ+ DJs face similar obstacles. “It’s just so degrading. By the time you get to play, you don’t even want to be there,” she laments. Yet, her resilience shines through as she emphasises the importance of fostering a supportive community. “I feel like there are definitely people who think the DJ scene should be gatekept, but that’s such a strange viewpoint,” she passionately asserts. “Music is for everyone.”
Her vision for change is clear: “I want it to go back to dancing. I just want people to have fun again.” Yemz envisions a music scene where the pressure to adhere to superficial standards fades, allowing authenticity to flourish. “It’s okay to express yourself… clubbing isn’t perfect; it’s gritty.”
As she forges her own path, Yemz is committed to uplifting others. She draws inspiration from artists like GDS, Eliza Rose and Green Tea Peng, who embody kindness and support within the industry.
For aspiring DJs, particularly those from marginalised backgrounds, Yemz offers this guidance: “Just be yourself. Do your thing. If people look at you with a side-eye, they’re still watching.” Her infectious energy and passion for music serve as a reminder that self-expression is the key to success in the creative realm.
Reflecting on her journey, Yemz recognises the significance of her achievements and often takes a moment to appreciate how far she has come. “I think my younger self would be impressed,” she admits, embodying the resilience and passion that have marked her path. From her childhood memories of dance and rhythm to the vibrant soundscape she crafts today, Yemz’s story is one of perseverance and creativity. As a powerful force in the UK music scene, she continues to champion diversity and celebrate the unifying joy of dance, echoing the same fervour and cultural richness that first inspired her journey.
