Dubai-based DJ SONYA is a music industry force to be reckoned with. When she’s not co-creating soundtracks for Nike ads on the Burj Khalifa, she’s spinning with the likes of Idris Elba, Mark Ronson and Jennifer Lopez at grand parties in the city.
Behind the decks as a producer and DJ, SONYA is craving out a name for herself as one of Dubai’s most sought-after music performers. And having just dropped her very first edit titled “Say It Right”, it seems this powerhouse is only just getting started.
We sat down with the woman at the helm of the soundtrack to life in Dubai to discuss her path to success, industry insights, and her connection to her craft. After all, for SONYA, music is life’s biggest energy exchange.
Read our exclusive interview with DJ SONYA below…
Cosmo ME: Tell us about your background and your introduction into the world of music.
SONYA: Growing up in Poland, I was an adventurous kid. During my school years, I developed a strong passion for entertainment and self-expression. This passion led me to take on roles as a choreographer for large stage productions. Eventually, my journey led me to the United States, where I pursued DJ classes at the Scratch DJ Academy in Los Angeles & Columbia College in Chicago.
Cosmo ME: What does being a DJ and producer mean to you?
SONYA: Being a DJ to me is all about channeling energy, emotion, and connection through music. It’s about crafting experiences, vibing with the crowd, and making memories. Whether I’m spinning at a massive festival or in an intimate club, my goal is always to create an atmosphere where people can lose themselves in the music and forget about their worries. There’s no better feeling than seeing a group of people enjoying themselves, laughing, and having a blast to the music you play. This is my favorite energy exchange; I thrive off it for another couple of days.
Cosmo ME: For most artists, being original and authentic is often the biggest challenge. As you began learning to DJ, how important was it to find your own style and set yourself apart from other DJs?
SONYA: I didn’t really stress about being original or different; I just go with what I like, you know? Plus, I feel like I grew up on stage, so performance in general is really natural for me. Drawing inspiration from others is normal, especially when you’re starting out as a DJ. But the more I DJed, the more my style evolved. I thrive on mixing diverse genres. As you gain experience, you start to develop your own style. Key elements include music curation, technical proficiency, crowd reading, and finding that sweet spot between creativity and crowd-pleasing.
Cosmo ME: How do you own your space in the industry as a woman?
SONYA: I don’t think it’s an easy lifestyle, and in the end, it’s all about how you handle things – if you’re serious about your work and you let your talent shine, you’ll earn respect. One of the most fulfilling aspects of being a female DJ/producer is receiving heartfelt messages from mothers who share your story with their daughters. They point to you and say, “Look, this is Auntie Sonya. She used to live in our city, and now she’s out there doing amazing things.” Reflecting on my own upbringing, I never imagined achieving what I’m doing now because it seemed unattainable. But today, there’s a new generation of girls growing up with the confidence that they can pursue any dream they set their minds to.
Cosmo ME: What are your main influences and inspirations in your career?
SONYA: My primary influences stem from a diverse array of sources, drawing from my background in dance and my deep love for music spanning different genres and eras. I’ve always been immersed in the DJ scene, learning invaluable lessons from countless hours spent watching DJs perform – there’s no better teacher.
Cosmo ME: What is the best part about being a DJ?
SONYA: It’s the connections I make through music. Whether it’s getting a crowd going on the dance floor or hearing how my sets resonate with people, that feeling of bringing people together through music is unbeatable. That’s what makes my “job” more than just a job – it’s a deeply fulfilling way to make an impact.
Cosmo ME: What is one thing that no one tells us about the music industry?
SONYA: One thing that often goes unspoken in the music industry is the importance of resilience and adaptability. Whether it’s bouncing back from financial setbacks or grabbing hold of unexpected opportunities, being able to roll with the punches is crucial. Especially at the start, when you’re essentially flying solo, it’s all on you to figure things out and keep pushing forward.
Cosmo ME: People often find music healing in many ways. How would you describe your connection to music, and how important it is to be creative and passionate as a DJ?
SONYA: Music is incredibly healing and transformative, both for myself and for others. My connection to music is deeply personal, and I strive to infuse creativity and passion into every aspect of DJing. If I don’t feel that connection, I take a break or reassess. After all, if you’re not genuinely passionate about your work (whatever your work is), it’s hard for others to connect with it.
Cosmo ME: What has been the most rewarding moment from your career as a DJ so far?
SONYA: Opening for Bruno Mars at the DU Arena in Abu Dhabi stands out as a pinnacle moment. The energy of performing for such a massive crowd for the very first time in my career, alongside such a phenomenal artist, that’s my number one. Performing with Idris Elba, Mark Ronson, and Jennifer Lopez for the opening of One&Only One Za’abeel was another standout.
Co-creating the soundtrack for Nike Air Max Day, featured on the Burj Khalifa, was also incredibly fulfilling. Seeing my work on such a grand scale was surreal, and contributing to a global event of such magnitude was incredible.
Cosmo ME: What advice would you give to other aspiring female DJs who are looking to break into the industry?
SONYA: To aspiring female DJs looking to break into the industry, I would say: stay true to yourself, work hard on your craft, and never let anyone undermine your talent or worth. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and remember that your unique perspective and voice are invaluable assets. Keep pushing boundaries, and don’t be afraid to demand the recognition and respect you deserve.
Looking for some more music inspo? Check out all the epic concerts happening in the UAE in 2024 here.