iD 006: TAMISYA
Following up with our iD series, we chat to the one and only Tamisya. Born and raised in North Dublin, our native DJ has set fire to the turntables with her
recent sets and mixes. Not only this, Tamisya has welcomed an adorable baby boy into the world and we wanted to know all about motherhood and the balance of work and home life.
Photo by Zoe Ardiff.
Let’s start off chatting about your new bundle of joy, Roman! How was your pregnancy journey? How’s motherhood going so far?
Pregnancy was such a breeze for me! I was very lucky. The first few weeks were difficult as I was nauseous but after that it was fantastic. I love being a mammy, it is a full time job and so so difficult at times, but so worth it. More ups than downs definitely.
We’re interested to know the extensions of your cravings! What did you crave during your pregnancy? Are they difficult to resist?
Surprisingly I didn’t have any weird cravings. I was mad for cheese triangles on cold toast. Went through a phase of having ice cream every day for like 3 months too! I didn’t resist anything I ate absolutely everything.
How would you describe your personal style? Do you think motherhood has or will change that?
Over the years, my style has changed so much, I feel like I’ll always change my style to experiment. I’ve always had an interest in streetwear, I think I wear way too much black, so I’m trying to get more colour in my wardrobe again. Motherhood has definitely made it difficult and I feel like you lose your sense of self.
Especially when I was pregnant as I couldn’t wear mini skirts or any of my old clothes. Nothing fits the same as it used to as I’ve larger boobs and I’m up a few sizes but I’m enjoying wearing baggy clothes, cargo bottoms, and baggy tees, just until I find myself again.
How has it been trying to juggle the music alongside everything else that’s going on right now? Challenging?
It’s proven to be very difficult, but when the baba is napping, I’m trying to get everything done. I try to shower, get dressed etc. Trying to juggle looking for new tracks, downloading music and curating playlists is challenging but I’m lucky to have daddy bear to help out. I’ll find my way of scheduling in time to do it soon.
We were privileged to witness your set on behalf of Rathaus at Research’s takeover in Farrier & Draper on Stephen’s night. How was that experience?
That was my last gig, around two weeks before I had Roman! I had a fabulous time. Unfortunately a drink was spilled all over the equipment which resulted in me having to finish my set early so I was quite upset about that. But I think it’s all part and parcel of DJing and I have a gig soon which will make up for it!
You’ve dropped a recent mix 23” Heat. What was your approach to this set? Do you follow a strict process when mixing?
When I make a mix, I experiment and mix tracks that I think sound well together. This takes a few hours to test and listen. I create a list then of songs I think blend well and I throw a few extra songs in as I record. It used to take me around 3/4 recordings until I was happy, now I usually get it in one.
What are your favourite three tracks from the mix? It’s banger after banger.
My three faves would have to be: Hadone - Slow Burn Confessions; Saltu - Genex; Mind Print - Jimi Joel.
When you’re doing a live set, what’s important for you to be able to keep the dance floor engaged and energised?
I always start steady and build up my sets. If I see the crowd getting bored it’s usually when I’m playing a repetitive beat without any build up or vocals. I usually then change it up and throw a song in that is full of energy, has a vocal or is popular that people could be familiar with!
Photo by Lee Roy Turner.
What plans have you made for this year so far in terms of gigs and releases? Surely your hands are going to be tied?
This year I’m happy to take most gigs, it’s challenging because I now have the baby. We have good support around us and people who can help out. I definitely don’t want to stop anytime soon. I have 2 this April, 1 festival so far and 1 in August. I’m really looking forward to this year and I’m hoping to produce very soon when I find the time to learn.
What are your five most played tracks at the moment?
I always get new tracks for every gig and mix I’ve played, as I get bored very easily of playing the same tunes.
My favourites at the moment would be, Sescenti - Riko; KH38 - Acid Fag Leather Bag; Von Riu - Godspeed; Samba de conga - Cult; Aasi & Olympe 4000 - We Never Work
Follow @tamisya_ on Instagram.
