We interviewed gorge superstar DJ RAE ahead of her set at Beyond on Sunday. She talked underage gay clubbing, playing Ministry of Sound, and that most DJ-esque of pastimes…chillin’ in Bali man!
Hey Rae, we see from your Twitter you’re currently in Bulgaria at the moment. How is it over there?
I love the people, really welcoming, and Sofia is a great city! The crowds go crazy and love live vocals.
Where’s the most interesting/exciting/unusual place you’ve played this year?
I kicked off the year in Bali, my favorite place in the world (after Ibiza of course). It’s a little piece of paradise. Balinese people are beautiful, the vibe is really special, people from all over the world, so far from home but so relaxed. I was playing music to smiling faces with the most stunning backdrop. Good times.
What do you think of the London clubbing scene at the moment?
Back on form! House is house again and people are hungry for the parties. UK music is in a great space, so many good clubs, from tiny and intimate to the big badass Ministry – still on top of its game! Say no more.
Do you have much experience on the London gay scene?
My love of house music started as a clubber and my best times were on the gay scene. We used to travel all over the UK. I was way too young to be there but I was with a crowd and we would hit Trade and other places. The gay scene had the most amazing liberated feeling, I was hooked! Tony de Vit was a key player. The feeling in that atmosphere is euphoric. The connection with the music and the feeling is what I’m all about. Leave the rest of the bullshit at the door.
It’s your first time playing at Beyond. You must be pretty excited?
Yes I’m buzzing, I’ve heard great things and I’m ready for a mental Sunday morning, can’t wait to see the crowd!
Do you remember your first Ministry experience?
It was a really special event, my best friend glammed me up, we danced all night to pure house music and I don’t think we went home for a few days. My first time in the box was performing live with Sandy Rivera and the last time I was there I was playing with Defected. I love that feeling, seeing the club from all sides.
What can we expect from your set?
Good proper house vibes, vocals from the soul and music from the heart.
• Rae will be performing at Beyond (Ministry, 103 Gaunt Street, SE1 6DP) on Sunday 29th. 5am–1pm. £11 advanced, £3 off before 8am with concession, guestlist, NUS card or flyer.
