From heavy dubstep to South Asian callbacks, Gracie T’s repertoire places them as a pioneer in the DJ scene today, cemented by their dedication to creating safe spaces for underrepresented artists. Here we explore these spaces further, figuring out what’s missing and how DJ Gracie T aims to fill those gaps.
It’s clear that you’re carving out your own space in today’s music scene, but who inspires you?
There have been so many artists who have shaped the artist I’m trying to become, a few stand out to me such as Anz, Sherelle, Jyoty, Manara & the Pxssy Palace crew. It’s always a joy to see these artists being authentically themselves on stage but I also respect the way they all stand up for themselves when they’re faced with the negativity that can often come with being marginalised in the music scene.
You are part of the management team for The Beatriarchy, which provides a platform for underrepresented artists. What, to you, defines an inclusive community? What do you look for and aim to provide?
I run The Beatriarchy alongside Kitsta, Shannon From Admin, Colecta, MYNA, & Beetroot and we have always tried to create a space for the people in the music scene who struggle to find a sense of belonging. An inclusive community means a space to be authentically yourself, share knowledge and support the successes of each other.
While pursuing music, you’re also doing a lot for marginalised communities – is this ever draining?
You have recently made the move from Sheffield to Manchester. Do you see a difference between the two music scenes and is there anything still lacking in either place?
I was sad to leave Sheffield after being there for almost eight years but the Manchester scene has been super welcoming. I think the two cities are very similar, however Sheffield has definitely seen the disappearance of several important DIY spaces, which has created a hole in the community. Spaces like Gut Level in Sheffield are building this back up again and they deserve all the support people can give to making the scene more inclusive! I’m incredibly excited to be working with Dialled In to put on our first festival in Manchester on the 20th July. The lineup is filled with South Asian talent from the North, particularly platforming women & queer people who are often forgotten like the legendary DJ Radical Sista, House of Spice & many more.
What can we expect from your Glastonbury set?
I’ll be bringing a fusion of genres like usual to Glasto this year. In my set b2b with Shivum at Silver Hayes we’ll be bringing the Funky/Jersey Club/Garage vibes and expect loads of fun edits with a South Asian spin. At my set on the Arrivals stage I’ll be going a bit harder with lots of Bassline, Dubstep and Jungle – think silly & speedy!
Could you describe your 2024 so far in one word, and give us another word to describe your hopes for the rest of the year?
Whirlwind – I moved to a new city, started a new job & it’s been hectic! I’m hoping the rest of the year will be chilled – I’m trying to find a good work/life balance with teaching/djing/resting, so wish me luck!
DJ Gracie T is playing The Lonely Hearts Club at Silverhayes, Glastonbury on Thursday from 11:45pm-1am, and Arrivals at Shangri-La, Glastonbury on Friday from 4am-5am.