Why Grassroots Clubs Matter More Than Ever: Sam Divine

About this episode

Sam Divine discusses the importance of grassroots clubs and her journey in the house music scene.

In this episode of Can You Put Me On Guest List? , I sit down with legendary house DJ Sam Divine for a live keynote conversation recorded at the Night Time Economy Summit in Liverpool (2026) . With more than two decades in the scene and a long-standing relationship with Defected Records , Sam shares the story behind her journey — from growing up on a council estate in Bristol and buying her first decks for £100, to becoming one of the most respected names in global house music. We talk about the importance of grassroots clubs , why they are essential for developing DJs, and why so many smaller venues are disappearing. Sam also reflects on her early days hustling for gigs in Ibiza , what she learned from playing marathon sets in small venues, and why real experience behind the decks matters more than viral success. She also introduces her new 555 concept - five cities, five-hour sets, and £5 tickets - designed to support grassroots venues and make club culture accessible again. In this conversation we also discuss: • Her journey with Defected Records • Winning Best House DJ at the Ibiza DJ Awards • Life on the road and finding balance through sobriety • The lost art of the warm-up…

People in this episode

Host: Katie Knight

Guest: Sam Divine

Topics covered

• grassroots clubs
• DJing
• house music
• club culture
• music industry
• live performances

Keywords

• grassroots clubs
• DJing
• house music
• Defected Records
• Ibiza
• live performances
• music industry
• club culture

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Defected Records

Places: Bristol, Ibiza

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