- Could you share the thoughts and ideas behind this mix?
When I was first invited to create this YouTube mix, the track that immediately started playing in my head was “Everybody Knows” by Family Underground, which ended up being the final track of the set. So I built the whole mix around that song. As with my usual DJ sets, I approached this one with the idea of letting the music speak for what I’m feeling about the world right now — the things I think about and experience in everyday life. I aimed to create a story that embraces both the joyful and the sorrowful, something that accepts it all — yet ultimately leaves you with a sense of hope and forward motion.
- Is there a difference in your mindset or approach when DJing with only 7-inch records compared to when you play with LPs or 12-inch records?
There’s no particular difference in mindset or approach for me. It really depends on the vibe of the venue and the genre I’m playing, but I usually bring both 7-inch singles and LPs. When I’m selecting more jazz or lounge-type music, it’s almost always LPs only. For this set, since the focus was on soul music, I decided to go with a 7-inch-only selection.
- What aspects of 7-inch vinyl records do you find appealing?
It might not be the right word to call it a “charm,” but for me, the biggest appeal is definitely how compact and easy to carry they are. I often end up buying 7-inches when I find a single cut of a favorite track from an album.
-Do you have a particular preference for playing original pressings when you DJ?
Ideally, I’d like to play original pressings, but since they can be expensive or hard to find, I don’t obsess over it too much. That said, this is just my personal feeling, but original records seem to carry the atmosphere and character of the era they were made in—you can feel it in the jacket and the vinyl itself. The excitement I get when I hold one is just on a different level.
- Among the tracks you played this time, is there one favorite that you often include in your DJ sets? If so, could you share the reason as well?
When I DJ, I only bring records I truly love, so it’s really hard to choose just one favorite track! (laughs) But one I’ve been playing a lot recently is *“Flavio / Madre,”* which I received as a souvenir from Lima, Peru. I don’t know much about the track itself, but when I checked the label, I found out it was actually released in Spain. So even though it was a Peruvian souvenir, it turned out to be Spanish—which is exactly the kind of surprise that makes records so addictive. It’s a slow-tempo number that I like to play toward the end of a party, just like today.
- One of the things that stands out about you, Marie, is how much fun you seem to be having while DJing — it's truly wonderful to see. What’s the moment during a DJ set when you feel the most excited or happiest?
I’m truly grateful and happy for every opportunity I get to DJ. Seeing people who’ve come to the event dancing to the music really lifts my spirits even more. Music always gives me energy, and I approach DJing with a deep sense of respect and reverence for it—maybe that’s why the joy I feel naturally shows on my face when I play.
- What methods do you prefer when searching for new music? Do you still enjoy browsing for music in record stores, or have you come to prefer online purchases?
I often visit local record stores in my neighborhood. I enjoy listening to records there, and at home I explore new music by tuning into international internet radio stations. When I come across a track I love, I can’t help but start imagining things like, “I want to play this at that next party!” or “I’d love for that person to hear this!”—and that whole process of letting my thoughts wander is so much fun.
- Besides DJing, what stimulates your creativity?
Visiting galleries to appreciate art, playing tennis or basketball with friends, and going to live shows—all of these things provide me with really inspiring stimulation.
- Do you have any advice for those looking to start a career as a DJ?
Nowadays, it's easy to discover amazing music online, but if possible, I recommend going to places where you can actually hear music and experience it live. For me personally, one of the greatest joys since I started DJing has been getting the chance to play at the same events as artists I admired back when I was a student. That kind of atmosphere and energy is something you just can’t fully experience through a screen.
- What plans do you have for 2025?
I’m not sure if I’ll be able to announce it within this year, but I have a collaboration planned with a musician I really love. I also have several DJ gigs lined up in different places, so I’d be very happy if you came out to listen and dance!
