Dance music may be dominated by males in the booth, but there are a select number of ladies in the game that steal the show once they step behind the CDJs. When DJ-producer Sydney Blu made her debut on Mau5trap Recordings, her profile rapidly grew, and she later made the move from her native Canada, to North America dance music mecca, Miami. Fast forward, and she's busier than ever with her own label, Blu Music, and touring all over the world, playing some of the most popular venues in the nation, including an infamous residency at Mansion nightclub in South Beach. Her recent Life From Mansion album on Nervous Records, features original tracks and remixes, and has been getting immense praise. The album was recorded live over one evening at Mansion, and highlights her high-energy style of play that erupts the crowd into a dancing frenzy.
We recently caught up with Sydney Blu for the latest edition of the Nightlife 5, where she spilled the beans on her nightlife vices, from favorite late night eats to her hospitality rider.
Clubplanet: You recently made the move to South Beach. What is it about Miami nightlife that sets it apart from other major markets?
Sydney Blu: First of all, every venue is open until 5AM. That's a huge difference. Most places in the U.S. close at 2AM. sharp. It's also a place where people want to let loose. People come here to go on vacation, so everyone's up for a party. I think thats what makes the city so crazy.
Clubplanet: You happen to be one of the top female DJ-producers on the scene. What's a woman such as yourself ask for on their rider when they play a gig? What's your poison?
Sydney Blu: I just want my tech rider to be correct. It's important I have 3 CDJs because I have one player I sample on. I also like the EFX 1000 and that can be hard to get sometimes especially in small towns. For the hospitality rider I need water and there’s vodka in there also, but I rarely drink the vodka if I’m by myself. That's usually for my guests.
Clubplanet: Playing some of the best clubs in the world introduces you to some of the best eats around the nation. Where is one late night bite that you wish was in every city you played?
Sydney Blu: Sushi is my favorite. I love to eat at Katsuya in Los Angeles, and Sushi Samba in Miami. I think NOBU is overrated. Also, Kii in Toronto is one of my favs, too.
Clubplanet: Playing techno for hours on end can be pretty exhausting. Where do you escape for a quiet drink on an off night?
Sydney Blu: I really try not to go out on nights off, however, in Miami Lincoln Road is amazing for dinner and chill drinks.
Clubplanet: We're sure you've seen your fair share of nightlife debacles in the club. What is one instance in the club when you thought, 'What the hell is going on?'
Sydney Blu: One time a guy was so wasted that he thought I was the bartender and tried to order a drink from me. I’ll never forget that. He was giving me money and everything.