DJ Pretty Play has opened up about the challenges she faces as a female DJ in Nigeria’s music industry. Speaking during an interview with HipTV, she addressed the assumptions and stereotypes women often encounter in what remains a male-dominated field.
Reflecting on her journey, she described it as demanding and, at times, discouraging. According to her, female DJs are frequently judged based on their appearance rather than their professional competence, with some people questioning how they secure performance bookings.
“It’s crazy, the journey has been really difficult and discouraging, I must say, as a woman in a male-dominated space,” she said.
Sexualisation And Industry Perceptions
Expatiating on the issue, DJ Pretty Play noted that some male DJs assume women get booked for reasons unrelated to skill. She explained that female DJs are often sexualised, with their success attributed to physical appearance rather than talent.
“Most of the times we are being sexualized. Some male DJs believe female DJs get gigs because of their physical appearance, not because of their skill. They think female DJs are getting gigs because they’re pretty,” she stated.
Commitment To Craft And Musical Background
Despite the criticism, DJ Pretty Play emphasised that her career is built on proper training and personal dedication. She revealed that she was mentored by experienced DJs and comes from a musically inclined family.
“From anyone that’s been in my party knows I’m a badass DJ. I enjoy what I’m doing. I’m not doing it because I don’t have what to do, I’m doing it because it’s what I want to do. I was born into music,” she said.
She also advised aspiring DJs to be clear about their intentions before entering the profession, stressing that commitment to the craft must come before seeking fame or public recognition.
“It’s not by going into the DJ world, trying to be a DJ maybe because you want to be known and you don’t know what you’re doing,” she added.
Stage Appearance And Public Criticism
Addressing criticism about female DJs’ stage outfits, she clarified that performers often adapt their appearance based on industry norms and audience expectations. She explained that revealing outfits sometimes attract more attention, while conservative dressing may generate less engagement. According to her, such decisions are shaped more by societal standards than personal preference, noting that every professional field has its informal dress codes.
Guinness World Record Attempt
Looking ahead, DJ Pretty Play is preparing to attempt a Guinness World Record for the longest marathon club DJing session. The record-breaking attempt is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, 3rd March, at Bay Lounge in Lekki, Lagos, where she aims to perform continuously for 288 hours behind the turntables.
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