DT796 – Nala

Hailing from the vibrant city of Miami, Nala got her start playing in underground nightclubs where she developed a reputation as a reliable tastemaker and energetic performer.

Her knowledge of deep house, indie dance, electro, and breaks made her a versatile and compelling choice for the local market and helped establish her “as one of Miami’s top female DJs and certainly an act making some serious strides on the circuit.” (EARMILK)

Her positive attitude and infectious DJ style recently caught the attention of Dirtybird Records’ founder, Claude VonStroke, who now actively manages her career.

Currently, Nala is a hardworking member of the Los Angeles electronic music scene and a resident DJ at the notable after-hours event series, Lights Down Low. Her unique take on Riot Grrrl-style vocals and affinity for analogue soundscapes has helped garner the attention of the industry’s top producers and allowed her to pave her own space within the community.

With a slew of releases lined up for 2021-2022, Nala is now playing shows and festivals across the globe. Today, she joins us on the podcast for the first time. Listen to it below, on Mixcloud or iTunes here.

Sum up this podcast in 10 words…
Dancing and partying my way through a crumbling American democracy

What’s your personal favourite track on it?
I really like the Close to Custom track. I’m not one to play a lot of minimal, but he hits all the right spots. His sampling is tasteful and his bass has a great groove to it.

What’s the special ingredient in this mix?
The special ingredient is the lack of purity. It covers many subgenres of dance music, which is definitely my style. I am not a purist by any means.

Tell us about your next EP?
My next EP is with Miami-based producer E.R.N.E.S.T.O and it’s the first release on my own label imprint, Mi Domina. E.R.N.E.S.T.O is a wildly talented producer and a really great person, which is a prerequisite for me. I don’t work with disrespectful people. I’ve featured two of the songs in this mix. It’s out July 13th!

What have you got coming up?
Got a lot of U.S. and Canada shows this year, so I’ll be touring and writing as much music as possible between dates. I’m working on coming to Australia, the UK, and the EU within the next year! My goal at the moment is to see as much of the world as possible.

And finally, do you have a special message for our readers?
Dancing is the best escape and kindness makes it even better!

Tracklist

Ardalan & Nala – Habits Die Hard (Damon Jee Remix)
Matt Gray, Lokai – Work Together
Kristin Velvet – The Foundation
Viers – Dolphin Telephone
Slo Moshun – Bells of N.Y.
Klubbheads – Klubbhopping
X-Coast – Deep Inside
Fleur Shore – Thick Thighs
Javi Bora, Richard Ulh – Bad Boy
E.R.N.E.S.T.O & Nala – Get Familiar
Close to Custom – Take A’ Ride
Ceszar – House of Love
Daniel Steinberg – Free Love
ANOTR – Strobe
Deetron – Dr. Melonball
Big Miz – Stay Awake
E.R.N.E.S.T.O & Nala – God Complex