South African-born, Harlem, New York City raised, DJ/producer AQUTIE is unifying the dance world with her signature global African dance sound, incorporating elements of Afro house, AfroTech, gqom (a South African form of dance music), and amapiano, also a South African genre. And she’s about to tour the world.
You just played Coachella for the first time. How was that?
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Where do I begin? I didn’t really know what to expect if I’m being honest with you. The lineup was so fantastical and fabulous, I was already expecting to hear some really good music. I feel like we’re back in that dance music now, people are just wanting to hear house and all kinds of dance music. I grew up dancing, singing, playing the violin for many years. Music is a very big part of me.
How did growing up in Harlem shape your sound?
Being in New York is a melting pot of culture. Just being a club kid, a city kid, running around the streets with my violin every Monday, seeing, hearing people in the train that are playing their music. They’re out here hustling and trying to survive off of their craft. It is magical.
How do you want people to feel hearing your music?
I want them to feel free and like the baddest in the room. Like you’re in your own moment, you’re your own main character, you’re living free.
You have some amazing summer shows coming up.
Mallorca Fest with Desiree & Gina Jeanz, I’m so excited for that. I’ve never been to Spain. I’m just so ready to pump these beats. I always try to make sure I represent the underground scene anywhere I go. I also headline a show in London with Karen KG who I have never met but I’ve always been a huge fan of her music. It’s gonna be such a full circle moment to be able to share that space with her. We also have Ossie and Nicky Summers who are killing the game. After that, Berlin and the HÖR bathroom. Then my EDC Vegas debut on their new Afro House stage UBUNTU by Bridges For Music. They’re a collective community that teaches music to underprivileged kids based out of South Africa.
What’s next?
More music is on the way. I’m trusting myself and I know my mission in life is to bring people together through music and culture.
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