Toronto Music Scene

By: Tanya Bailey
March 04, 2010
 
Hey lady DJ, won't you play that song...

DJ the Queen of Spades knows how to rock the club scene like the back of her hand. Can you think of any other way to move the crowd? I had the chance to talk with the Queen of Spades as she shares her skills as a DJ, producer and engineer of many diversified musical projects.

Tell me a bit about yourself?
 
In a nutshell, I’m an open, fun loving, honest person. I love music and that's pretty much my life. I'm straight up, so if you’re going to ask me something, be ready for the bitter truth!

How long have you been spinnin'?

I got into djing about 11 years ago. It was more of a hobby, but I bought records every week, had turntables and pretty much taught myself how to play. After a while, people caught on to what I was doing, knew I loved music and thought I should take it further. I did for a bit about six years ago, but the timing wasn't really there, so I stopped. Then, I decided to go fuck, swing with it, about 1.5 years ago.  Its been going great ever since.

Who are some of your favourite dj's? and why?

Starting From Scratch - he is hands down one of the best djs I've ever heard. He is so unique, original and fierce on the 1's and 2's, it's crazy. If you've ever been in a party where he's played, you'll know what I'm talking about.
Spinderella- She was the first female DJ I ever saw spin. Back then, Salt-n-Pepa was one of my favorite groups, so it was just so awesome to see three females doing what is mainly dubbed as a male dominated field.
 
How long have you been in the music scene?

I've been on the music scene for over 14 years now. I've done it all from promotions to dancing to marketing to event planning. I have loved learning different aspects of the business, because it's prepared me for dealing with my own business now hands on.
 
You have an Internet radio show called the Royal Treatment, how is that going?

Wow! The Internet show is going great. I started back in September of 2007 and it's just getting better. I love having the ability and freedom to pretty much play what I want. I play all types of music and love interacting with my listeners as well. I do the show live, which allows me to take requests and speak to the listeners as I do my show.
 
What’s the scene like elsewhere in your music genre?

I have had the pleasure so far of playing in places like Washington D.C. and New York City, and yes, the music scenes are completely different.  Still very similar to here, but unique to their area as well. In D.C., they like a lot of the crunk, down south stuff. While in NYC, they jam to more hip hop and r&b.
 
You have expanded your musical selections from hip hop and r&b to soca and beyond, why?

I felt that I had mastered those two genres and it was time for me to expand out and widen my expertise to include other genres. I love all types of music and just felt that the time was right that I can take that step and expand into other types of music. I love soca and house music and always messed around with them at home, but not out in the clubs. Honestly, my show has helped in giving that practice as well.
 
Is it easy being a lady DJ?

I think being a DJ being has its struggles. There are the ups and downs of this industry period. Being a female DJ has its advantages and disadvantages though. Some people view it as a great marketing tool. Others don't think we have the talent to stand up to men.  Basically, I just go to the party, get on the 1's and 2's and show them what I’m about. Let my talent speak for itself.
 
What’s next for the Queen of Spades?

Where do I start? I'm working on an exclusive line of clothing right now. I'm very excited about that. Mainly to start, it will be baby t's and t-shirts. We will see how that goes and possibly expand to other things. I am getting ready to drop my next CD. I'm also excited about that. Everyone has been hounding me for it, so I had to give the people what they wanted.  I'm looking forward to traveling and playing out of the country as well. I have some great things lined up. And, just getting ready for a very busy and hectic summer. Look for DJ Queen of Spades coming to a club near you!!
 
For more information on DJ Queen of Spades, check out www.myspace.com/djqueenofspades .  Check out her show the Royal Treatment every Saturdays from 1-3pm. www.globe-radio.com .

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