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…

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