What happens when you’re a girl raised by a family of circus performers? In the case of trapeze artist Neon Hitch (yes, that‘s her real name), you run away to pursue music. At age 16, the fiery haired performer left it all behind to live in London squats and create music on her terms. Just before Hitch was about to give up and return to the circus, she was signed to indie label The Beats Recording in 2007 and immediately went on tour. Right after the pop singer opened for rapper 50 Cent at England’s Nottingham Arena, a downfall occurred: The Beats Recording shut down that same year. Fortunately, this didn’t stop the traveling gypsy from befriending and collaborating with some of the top DJ’s in nightlife, including Miike Snow and Deadmau5. After meeting former “American Idol” judge Kara Dioguardi, Hitch was signed to Warner Brothers and recorded her debut album,
Beg, Borrow, and Steal. The rest, as they say, is history. We chatted with Hitch about partying with Amy Winehouse, meeting Ron Jeremy, and why she’s hooked on New York City’s nightlife.
Clubplanet: It seems like you’re quite the traveling gypsy. However, when it comes to New York City nightlife, what’s the one thing that makes it stand out from any other city?
Neon Hitch: New York is by far the most fun city I've lived in. There are so many things to do, sometimes too many. And I love that I can walk everywhere because I can’t drive (laughs). The people here are so open-minded to new music too, which always makes for a great crowd when I'm performing.
Clubplanet: How does one survive New York City nightlife?
Neon Hitch: With stamina, fearlessness, and a touch of ADD.
Clubplanet: What was your first club experience like in New York City and how is it different from your native UK?
Neon Hitch: The first night I went out to a NY club I hung out with this fabulous 6 foot-something drag queen with a beard who kept spanking my bum! I don't remember much after that, but I do know I've never met such characters back home. New York allows you to be whoever you want to be.
Clubplanet: Where do you go to get your late night grub fix?
Neon Hitch: I like Cafeteria. The first time I went there I ended up getting kissed by Ron Jeremy. I also love my local deli. The cream cheese bagels here are out of this world.
Clubplanet: I read that Amy Winehouse is like a sister to you. Describe a favorite memory that you have with Amy hitting the town at night.
Neon Hitch: My favorite memory was probably the night we met back up at a squat party in London when I was homeless. We both left in her car and I ended up living with her.
Check out Neon Hitch's new EP, Get Over You, on iTunes here.
