Each week, ARIA highlights one of the DJs that contributes to the Top 50 Club Tracks Chart.
Sydney DJ Victoria Anthony brings her charismatic energy, infectiously fun vibes and free spirit when she takes to the decks.
After graduating with a Bachelor of Music (Honours) majoring in Musicology in 2011, Victoria fell in love with the Sydney club and entertainment scene, honing her craft, and learning from the best. Determined to find her sound, Victoria spent 2013 in New York City where she was exposed to a whole new world of diverse music that only the city that never sleeps has to offer. While in New York, Victoria gained incredible opportunities to work at some of the world's most prestigious international festivals and dance parties.
Since her return to Sydney, Victoria has become one of Sydney's most sought-after DJs, winning the Drag Industry Variety Award (DIVA) for Most Popular DJ two years running and multiple title wins at Miss Trans Australia.
Victoria has gained rave reviews for her sets in front of thousands at the Mardi Gras party and at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. As well as New York, she has performed in New Zealand and Cairns and maintains residencies at The Beresford, The Stonewall Hotel and Arq Sydney.
1. Tell us about your style of music...
I love to play something that will set the right mood for the occasion. I play anything that has made it into the ARIA Charts and anything with a great beat.
2. What makes a set by you unique?
There’s not many transgender DJs in Australia and I am very proud to own who I am. You can usually see me behind the decks dressed in something sexy or sparkly. Brushing my long hair. I am not afraid to play what the crowd wants so I usually take requests and you can see me smiling and dancing as I play whatever they enjoy. I love seeing the dance floor busy.
3. What's your guaranteed floor-filler?
Really depends on the crowd, but I am usually playing to a queer crowd, and they love either ‘Untouched’ by The Veronicas, ‘Murder On The Dancefloor’ by Sophie Ellis-Bextor or ‘Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight)’ by ABBA. At the moment, ‘Coconuts’ by Kim Petras gets a BIG cheer.
4. You have to step away from the booth for a break, what's your go-to long song?
‘One More Time’ by Daft Punk or ‘Fergalicious’ by Fergie.
5. What would be your ultimate music collaboration?
I would love to collaborate with Madonna.
6. What is the most rewarding part of being a DJ?
Seeing people dance or cheer crazily. Probably every time I DJ, I can definitely say I have smiled or laughed while looking out at the crowd oh and not to mention FREE DRINKS!
7. Can you share any tips for people who want to become a DJ?
If you want to be a crowd-pleaser you have to play whatever the people want. But it should be a job you enjoy so try to find a balance. Create your own music or find the right venues or people that will appreciate your style. Ultimately you have to love and appreciate all types of music. Invest in DJ decks, watch other DJs play, ask questions, practice, dance, social media, find a good accountant, and HAVE FUN!
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