From Ivory Park to Global Dance Floors
Letâs dive into the story of DESIREE, who grew up in Ivory Park, Johannesburg, and see how her deep passion for music catapulted her to global stardom. Imagine a young girl in one of the worldâs electronic music hubs, soaking up sounds and rhythms, and blending them into her unique DJ sets. Thatâs DESIREE for you â a journey that began with a love for music and turned into an inspiring international career. Influenced by diverse artists like Radiohead and Thom Yorkeâs Atoms For Peace, sheâs carved out a distinctive style thatâs shaking up the electronic music scene.
Latest Release: Remix of Selaelo Selotaâs Classic âThrrr…Phaaa!â
Sheâs just released an amazing remix of Selaelo Selota’s Jazz classic, âThrrr…Phaaa!â If youâve caught any of her recent DJ sets, you might have heard her teasing it. This remix is a heartfelt tribute to her Sepedi heritage. DESIREE explained, âThis song was a staple in my household growing up. Its omnipresence well into my teen years inspired me to honour its legacy.â Remixing this live recording was no small feat, but sheâs nailed it, preserving its organic feel while infusing it with her unique electronic style. And the timing? Dropping it during Africa Month is a perfect nod to South Africaâs vibrant musical traditions.
A Global Influence with Local Roots
DESIREE’s climb to fame might seem rapid, but itâs been a steady ascent marked by impressive milestones. Sheâs featured on the cover of DJ Mag North America, earned the title of their Future Star, and even made a splash on BBC Radio 1âs Essential Mix series. Picture her electrifying audiences at world-renowned venues like DC-10, fabric, HĂŻ Ibiza, Glastonbury, Cercle, DGTL, and Lost Village. Just this past May, she headlined at Elsewhere in New York, cementing her international reputation.
But DESIREE isnât just about the music; sheâs about making a difference. In April 2023, she launched her own party, MMINO, spotlighting fellow South African DJs and supporting Intersex South Africa. Being an intersex woman herself, DESIREE leverages her platform to promote diversity and raise awareness in the music industry. And now, MMINO is set to make its European debut on May 24th at Colour Factory in London.
A Rising Star with an Unstoppable Spirit
From her early gigs in Johannesburgâs Braamfontein district to commanding the decks on global stages, DESIREEâs story is all about passion and perseverance. Her debut EP, Femme Tech, dropped in June 2022, and her reworks of tracks like Keinemusikâs âPussy Powerâ and LP Giobbiâs âAll I Needâ highlight her growing prowess as a producer. With a remix of a beloved South African Jazz classic and a second EP in the works, DESIREE isnât slowing down. Sheâs constantly pushing the envelope, blending South African rhythms with eclectic electronic beats, and staying true to her roots while advocating for social causes.
DESIREEâs journey is not just about music; itâs about creating a legacy that celebrates her heritage and reaches new heights on the global stage.
Catch DESIREE on Drive Time with Karim Bitar
Donât miss DESIREE on Drive Time with Karim Bitar at The Beat London 103.6 FM this Thursday, May 23rd, at 6 pm. Tune in to hear her talk about her latest projects, her creative process, and her vision for the future of South African music.
