International Women’s Day: The Women Making Waves in Electronic MusicNervo Press

International Women’s Day: The Women Making Waves in Electronic Music

The Women Making Waves in Electronic Music

In celebration of International Women’s Day, we are highlighting some of the best and brightest international female DJs. Oftentimes underepresented in the industry, women in dance music have an uphill battle in the male-dominated EDM industry, but their voice (and their music) grows louder with every passing day. From mainstage headliners, to queens of the underground, to tastemaking icons, the females in electronic music continue gain momentum with some of the most-talented, forward-thinking, and exciting artists in the industry today.

Nina Kraviz

You can’t talk about female DJs without mentioning their most identifiable spokeswoman, Nina Kraviz. She’s been the center of attention in numerous gender discussions, sparking controversy with her hyper-sexualized and unapologetic position in the great gender debate. Beyond her activism, the Russian firestarter is an adept DJ behind the decks who cut her teeth in Moscow’s bustling underground with a passion for everything from minimalist techno to warped acid house.


Nicole Moudaber


The unquestionable queen of techno, Nicole Moudaber has come to represent a beacon of artistry in the male-dominated genre. Dark and foreboding, Moudaber and Mood Records continue to push the boundaries of her chosen style with minimalist yet evocative techno. Her biggest fan? Dance music luminary Carl Cox, who has collaborated with the Lebanese talent and supported her throughout her career. A force to be reckoned with behind the decks, Moudaber’s presence in the techno zeitgeist grows with every marathon set she performs.





Anna Lunoe

It is no easy feat to shine within the growing pool of Auatralian electronic talents. Alongside the likes of Flume, Chet Faker and many more, Anna Lunoe has risen as an artist in her own right within the genre, proving her worthy standing alongside fellow OWSLA releasees. Lunoe is multitalented: her unique ability to weave addicting bass beats is only heightened with her own vocal features and additions. Her play hard, work hard mentality has launched her career fully forward as she proves that being a girl is no detriment to her future prolific career in dance music.


NERVO

Liv and Mim have always been set to stand out. But the twins, both platinum blonde and model height, have long ago proven that they are more than just a pretty face. Originally working behind the scenes, the two found their big break when their co-written song “When Love Takes Over” exploded as a David Guetta single. Since, the Australian exports have become an EDM powerhouse, penning hit after hit while flying to their Las Vegas and Ibiza residencies in between headlining slots on the world’s biggest festival stages around the world. The sisters have even extended their reach beyond the musical sphere: with a national Covergirl campaign under their belts and recognition for their eclectic style, the two have since launched as a rising name in fashion as well.





Louisahhh

Bromance Records female lead has carved a niche in which only she resides. Louisahhh is Brodinski’s female foil, a talent so hyper-chic and unconcerned with the status quo that she’s impossible to ignore. Known for her sultry originals — often driven by her own seductive spoken word top lines — the LA-born, Paris-based talent is effortlessly cool, spectacularly talented, and untouchable behind the decks.





Audrey Napoleon

A “modern Cleopatra” of sorts, Audrey Napoleon has defined her blossoming career and identity as an artist by bridging music and fashion. Some recognize Audrey as a stunning fashion icon who, in late 2014, debuted a custom makeup line alongside Ardency Inn, via retailers Sephora and Urban Outfitters. Others praise the singer-songwriter, DJ and producer for records such as “#MySunrise” and “Dope A La Mode,” which ranked in DJ Mag’s Top 10 Tracks of 2014. Regarded as the leader of Napoleon Nation, Audrey is a pioneer of self-expression and female empowerment – concepts that have yet to be fully embraced in the dance music world.


Annie Mac

In mid-February, Zane Lowe nearly traumatized the electronic music community when he abruptly announced his departure from Radio 1’s weekday evening show to begin a new adventure with Apple. To be entrusted with the show, which Zane hosted for 12 years, would in itself become a milestone in nearly any artist’s career. Even for Annie Mac, who stated, “Having 11 hours of airtime a week to share those moments with music that has no boundaries, is beyond a job, it’s a privilege. And to be following in the footsteps of Zane Lowe, a broadcaster that I respect and admire enormously, is a huge honour. I can’t wait to get started.”
It is difficult to illustrate Annie’s timeless impact on the electronic music scene, as she is the host of multiple radio shows including Annie Mac Presents, effervescently tours the globe, produces her own music and yet still finds time in her bustling schedule to be a full-time mother. At the end of the day, Annie Mac is the real MVP.








Maya Jane Coles


British-Japanese DJ, producer, record label-owner and engineer behind the aliases Nocturnal Sunshine and She is Danger is Maya Jane Coles. A mystifying veil encompasses the twenty-something year-old musician, which has earned her a number of awards such as DJ Mag’s ‘Producer of the Year 2011,’ FACT’s ‘Female Artist 2011’ and Symphonic Distribution’s ‘Artist of the Year 2012.’ Her unrelenting success is also what attracted the likes of pop stars such as Nicki Minaj, who recently sampled “What They Say” in her collaborative effort alongside Drake and Lil Wayne, “Truffle Butter.” When considering who truly made their mark on the UK house music scene, Maya Jane Coles’ enigmatic and sultry technique organically falls at the top of that list.


Krewella

Pushing aside all the controversy, there is no disputing that the Krewella sisters are a musical standout for females in the dance music realm. Crossing over to radio with ease, Yasmine and Jahan quickly became recognized voices that bring a savored brightness to their bass lines and heavier sounds. Never afraid to voice their opinions, the two have become standout figures for many do-good causes – including gender equality and anti-bullying. Now, the two sisters are taking full reign of the brand and ready to prove that they have what it takes to deliver for next chapter of Krewella.





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