Loud&Unfiltered

Alex sits down with LDN East owner Matt Blewitt and Creative Director & Programmer Zack Geraci on the dancefloor of one of East London’s most talked-about open-air venues.From its DIY beginnings to becoming a trusted home for some of electronic music’s biggest brands, artists and events, Matt and Zack share the story behind LDN East’s rise over the past four years.They discuss the venue's origins, the parties that helped put it on the map, why Eastenderz became a turning point, and how LDN East has become a launchpad for emerging talent, including Max Dean.The conversation also explores the realities of running large-scale events, working with councils on street parties, investing in sound and production, and balancing commercial success with a genuine passion for underground culture.Matt and Zach also reflect on standout moments including Skepta & Sammy Virji's EP launch, DR Banana's sold-out All Day Long, Throwdown with Max Dean, Luke Dean and Enzo Siragusa, and why they believe UK house and tech house is leading the world right now. Presented by Alex Jukes

Winter Music Conference has been bringing the electronic music industry together for decades, evolving from a niche networking event into one of the defining fixtures of Miami Music Week.In this special episode of Loud & Unfiltered: Inside Miami, Alex and Grego reflect on their own experiences of WMC before speaking with seven respected figures from across the scene: Megan Venzin, Doc Martin, Nicolas Rizzo Ehrenbock, Courtney Paige Nelson, Tiffany Baez, Nitin and DJ Ease.Together, they explore the changing face of Miami Music Week, the value of genuine industry connections, unforgettable moments from years gone by, and why WMC continues to play such an important role in electronic music culture.Whether you're a seasoned industry veteran or making your first trip to Miami, this episode captures the stories, perspectives and community spirit that have made Winter Music Conference a cornerstone of the global dance music calendar.Presented by:Alex Jukes | @alexjukeboxGrego O’Halloran | @gregoibiza

Melé joins Loud & Unfiltered for an honest conversation about creativity, anxiety, longevity and evolving through electronic music culture.From growing up on the Wirral and initially falling in love with Hip Hop before discovering dance music through Sasha, Digweed and The Prodigy, to becoming one of the UK’s most respected electronic artists, Melé reflects on the moments that shaped his journey.The conversation explores his infamous Boiler Room set and the impact it had on his career at just 18 years old, moving from Liverpool to Miami, the pressures of staying relevant 15 years into the industry, and learning to become more present rather than constantly chasing the next milestone.Melé also discusses writing his new album in Miami, experimenting with broader vinyl sets, using Ableton as a live creative tool, memories of Miami Music Week and Defected at The Sagamore, as well as the realities of balancing passion, anxiety and longevity within modern dance music culture.Presented by:Alex Jukes @alexjukeboxGrego O’Halloran @gregoibizaGuest Handle:@mele

Welcome to the very first episode of Inside Miami - a new series exploring the people, stories and culture that helped shape one of the world’s most influential electronic music cities. Before streaming platforms and social media algorithms changed dance music forever, DJs discovered records in clubs, traded white labels in person, and built scenes from the ground up. In this episode, Miami nightlife legend Jonathan Cowan reflects on the golden era of underground music culture - from the early days of vinyl digging and unpredictable club nights to unforgettable moments with artists like DJ Jazzy Jeff, Luciano, Loco Dice and more. Jonathan shares stories from the rise of Miami’s electronic music scene, how travel and entertainment shaped his path, and why real-world music discovery created a completely different energy in club culture during the 90s and early 2000s. Subscribe to Loud & Unfiltered for more unfiltered conversations with music industry leaders, innovators and cultural entrepreneurs, and connect with us on Instagram @loudandunfilteredpod Presented by: Alex Jukes | @alexjukebox Grego O'Halloran | @gregoibiza

In this episode of Inside SXM Festival, we sit down with Sistek (Adolfo) — Chilean DJ and producer — to explore how he’s building a global sound by combining Latin rhythms, melodic house and euphoric electronic music. Recorded in Saint Martin during SXM Festival, this conversation dives into how travel, nature and culture shape creativity — from writing music on Caribbean beaches to finding inspiration in sunsets around the world. Sistek shares how his upbringing in Chile influences his sound, why Latin audiences bring unmatched energy to dancefloors, and how he uses that energy to shape his DJ sets around the world. From reading crowds in different cultures to finding “your people” on the dancefloor, this is a masterclass in connection through music. We also explore his journey as an artist — from discovering electronic music through Tomorrowland aftermovies, to playing the festival himself, and now pushing towards global stages like SXM Festival and Ibiza. Along the way, Sistek opens up about his production process, the rise of Latin influence in electronic music, and why blending genres is the future of the scene. Subscribe to Loud&Unfiltered for more unfiltered conversations with music industry leaders, innovators, and cultural entrepreneurs and connect with us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jukeboxpr/ Key Moments:00:00 – Sunset Rituals & Latin-Electronic Fusion00:21 – Podcast Intro & Welcome to Sistek00:58 – Who Is Sistek? Name, Chilean Roots & British School01:20 – From Chile to Sweden & Touring Life01:48 – First Impressions of St. Martin (St Maarten)02:10 – Exploring St. Martin: Sunsets, Beaches & Creative Inspiration03:02 – How Sistek Describes His Sound: Euphoric Latin House04:35 – Comparing Crowds: Latin America, Europe & the Middle East05:35 – Reading the Crowd & Freestyling DJ Sets06:44 – SXM Festival Crowd: Cultures, Ages & Vibes07:34 – Ibiza as a Turning Point & Seeing Calvin Harris08:37 – Sistek’s Upcoming Ibiza Debut at Hï08:53 – Festivals vs Club Shows: Intimate vs Big-Stage Energy09:45 – Ocean Stage & Intimate Beach Set at SXM10:02 – Production Style: Latin Toplines & Emotional Melodic House10:58 – Dream Collaboration: Rufus Du Sol–Style Spanish Melodic Tracks11:20 – Craziest Gigs: Tomorrowland & Unique Locations11:53 – 96-Hour Non-Stop Party Cruise (Miami to Bahamas)12:37 – Touring, Moving to Paris & Life Plans Beyond DJing13:04 – Football, National Teams & Supporting Barcelona

In this episode, we sit down with &Friends, DJ, producer and global collaborator to explore the reality of life inside the electronic music industry, from playing stages like Coachella to performing at SXM Festival. Recorded live on the island of Saint Martin, this conversation goes beyond music. It’s about mindset, wellness, creativity and staying grounded in an industry that moves faster than ever. &Friends shares how journaling became a key part of his creative process, why slowing down is essential in a fast-paced touring lifestyle, and how chasing “more, more, more” can quietly disconnect artists from why they started in the first place. We also dive into the philosophy behind the &Friends project — a collaborative, global approach to music that blends influences from the Middle East, Africa, Europe and beyond. From working with vocalists around the world to building a unique sound rooted in emotion, rhythm and storytelling, this is a masterclass in modern electronic music creativity. Along the way, we explore festival culture, the SXM experience, and what it really means to create connection through music — whether that’s playing intimate rooms or closing major stages in front of thousands of people. Subscribe to Loud&Unfiltered for more unfiltered conversations with music industry leaders, innovators, and cultural entrepreneurs and connect with us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jukeboxpr/ Key Moments: 0:00 – Trailer 01:15 – Welcome to Loud&Unfiltered: Live at SXM Festival 02:11 – Meet &Friends: DJ, Producer, Collaborator 03:13 – Touring Life, Mental Health & Journaling Practice 05:25 – Slowing Down, Presence & Coachella Perspective 07:07 – Inside the &Friends Project: Community & Collaboration 10:49 – Saying No: Authenticity in a Toxic Music Industry 14:10 – Lebanon Home Base & The Reality of Middle Eastern Hospitality 16:21 – Signature &Friends Sound: Melodic, Afro‑Influenced, Joyful 19:12 – Crafting 3‑Hour Sets: Emotional Journey & Track Selection 21:05 – SXM Festival, Caribbean Crowds & Island Vibes 24:14 – Wellness on Tour: Gym, No Alcohol & Science‑Based Fasting 27:14 – Favourite Places, Life‑Changing Clubs & Egyptian Euphoria 29:37 – Festival Survival Tips & Closing Thoughts

Lee Burridge is a true pioneer of electronic music culture. From discovering acid house in the late 80s, to building a global DJ career, launching All Day I Dream, and becoming a defining figure at SXM Festival and Burning Man — his journey is one of longevity, taste and staying true to the music. In this episode of Inside SXM Festival, Lee takes us back to the origins of rave culture — from underground parties and record shops to playing in front of 20,000 people almost overnight. He shares how electronic music evolved from a niche sound into a global movement, and why the real magic has always been about connection, community and emotion on the dancefloor. The conversation dives deep into the philosophy behind his career, the creation of All Day I Dream, the unique energy of sunrise sets, and why he’s always chosen to play music he loves — not just what works. This is a masterclass in longevity, authenticity and building a career that lasts in an ever-changing music industry. Subscribe to Loud&Unfiltered for more unfiltered conversations with music industry leaders, innovators, and cultural entrepreneurs and connect with us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jukeboxpr/ Key Moments:0:00 – Keeping DJing a Gift, Not a Job0:40 – Introducing Lee Burridge at SXM Festival01:40 – First Trips to SXM and Island Life02:05 – The Legendary SXM Sunrise Party02:56 – What Makes SXM Festival Special03:49 – Early Raves, Sunrise Culture and Thailand04:35 – From Mobile DJ to Early House and Acid House06:21 – First Electronic Tracks: Marshall Jefferson & Chicago House07:16 – Late 80s Rave Culture and 20,000-Person Parties08:18 – DIY Beach Parties and Moving to Hong Kong09:33 – Becoming a Promoter in Hong Kong and Importing UK DJs11:33 – Records vs Food: The Reality of Early DJ Life12:17 – Touring in the 90s and Believing the Scene Would Last Forever13:08 – Not a Purist: Living on the Edge of Genres18:06 – Discovering Burning Man in 200519:21 – Shaping the Burning Man Sound and Sunrise Sets21:34 – How Burning Man and Dance Music Changed Each Other24:30 – The Birth of “All Day I Dream”25:58 – From Mix to Movement: Early All Day I Dream Parties27:30 – Building the All Day I Dream Brand in New York29:41 – Long Sets, Emotional Journeys and Marathon DJing30:05 – Ibiza, Venues and the Challenge of Outdoor Sound30:54 – Why Akasha in Ibiza Feels Right31:39 – Where Electronic Music Is Heading Now33:32 – Creative Restlessness and Moving Beyond Organic House34:05 – 43 Years of DJing: Keeping the Energy and Passion35:03 – Quickfire Round: Fabric, Frankie Knuckles and Long Sets36:07 – Sunrise Philosophy: Playing Patient Tracks for the Moment36:43 – Festival Tips for SXM and Pacing Yourself37:05 – Ones to Watch: Shouting Out Francis Mercier

In this episode of Loud & Unfiltered, Josh Karpf sits down with rising house music artist Sian Owen for a candid conversation about breaking into the electronic music industry, finding your sound, and building a credible career in club culture from the ground up. From being scouted for The Circle and hosting a show on Flex FM, to learning to DJ during lockdown and going on to land releases on Defected’s D4 D4NCE imprint, Sian shares the real story behind her journey into house music. She opens up about the challenge of being taken seriously in the industry, why personality and relationships matter, and how she went from warm-up sets and brand gigs to becoming a full-time DJ and producer. The episode explores the craft of DJing in real depth — especially the underrated art of being a great warm-up DJ, reading a room, and building a dancefloor without chasing big moments too early. Sian also talks about the turning point when she realised house music was what she wanted to pursue fully, why some early opportunities did not align with her long-term sound, and how she is now focused on making more playable, authentic records for herself as an artist. She also breaks down the thinking behind launching Ryder Sounds, her own party brand and creative platform, designed to reflect her musical identity and champion artists she genuinely believes in. Along the way, the conversation touches on London club culture, grassroots venues, dream spaces like KOKO, the importance of keeping events rooted in the scene, and what it means to grow without losing authenticity. There is also plenty on Ibiza, including her newly announced Pacha shows, support from Sonny Fodera, her ambitions for a bigger international season, and how last year’s releases — including the viral “Bad Mama Jama” moment — helped raise her profile while also clarifying the direction she wants to take next as a producer. Subscribe to Loud&Unfiltered for more unfiltered conversations with music industry leaders, innovators, and cultural entrepreneurs and connect with us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jukeboxpr/ Key Moments:0:00 – “Intro: From Reality TV to Rising House DJ”01:39 – “Who Is Sian Owen? Moving from Hertfordshire to London”02:40 – “From The Circle (Channel 4) to Flex FM Radio”03:40 – “Learning to DJ During COVID: First Decks and Obsession”04:55 – “First Gigs, Brand Work & Transition into House Music”06:15 – “How Reality TV Found Her: Festivals, Instagram & The Circle”09:43 – “Personality vs Looks: Playing the Plain Jane on The Circle”13:24 – “From Influencer DJ Fears to Earning Respect in House Music”14:55 – “The Art of the Warm-Up DJ: Reading the Room & Holding Back”18:05 – “The Moment It Clicked: First House Festival Set at La Fiesta”19:54 – “Finding Her Sound & Saying No to the Wrong Gigs”20:48 – “Launching Ryder Sounds: Brand, Vision & Cowboy Aesthetic”24:53 – “First Ryder Sounds Party: The Annex, Shoreditch & Lineup”28:11 – “Club Culture, 77 London & Growing the Brand”29:38 – “Pacha Ibiza & Sunny Fodera: Huge Residency Moment”31:41 – “Signing with D4 DANCE: Studio Sessions & Perfectionism”32:37 – “‘Bad Mamma Jamma’: Viral Success vs DJ Playability”36:42 – “Evolving as a Producer & Making Playable DJ Tracks”37:30 – “Upcoming Releases & Teasing New Music on TikTok”38:18 – “Advice to Her Younger Self: Start Early, Trust the Journey”40:06 – “Five-Year Vision: Ryder Sounds Label, Big Venues & Festivals”41:46 – “Quick-Fire: Dancefloor Weapons, Favorite Brands & Albums”44:41 – “Wildest Party Story (PG Version) & Closing Thoughts”

For the 50th episode of Loud & Unfiltered, we step inside one of the most iconic institutions in global dance music, Ministry of Sound.Recorded live from the heart of the club, this special episode brings together the voices shaping the next era of Ministry, unpacking how a legendary brand evolves in a rapidly changing music, nightlife and cultural landscape.From underground beginnings to global dominance, Ministry of Sound has been a cornerstone of club culture for decades and now it’s entering a new chapter.For the 50th episode of Loud & Unfiltered, we step inside one of the most iconic institutions in global dance music — Ministry of Sound.Recorded live from the heart of the club, this special episode brings together the voices shaping the next era of Ministry, unpacking how a legendary brand evolves in a rapidly changing music, nightlife and cultural landscape.From underground beginnings to global dominance, Ministry of Sound has been a cornerstone of club culture for decades — and now it’s entering a new chapter. Subscribe to Loud&Unfiltered for more unfiltered conversations with music industry leaders, innovators, and cultural entrepreneurs and connect with us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jukeboxpr/ Key Moments:00:00 – Ministry of Sound: Career Launchpad & Industry Impact01:15 – History of the Box: Iconic DJs & Dance Music Legacy01:55 – Meet Matt & Joe: From Leeds, Festivals & E1 to Ministry of Sound03:30 – Ministry of Sound at 35: Heritage, Emotion & Personal History04:50 – Why Refurbish the Box? Reconnecting DJ & Dancefloor05:10 – New Sound & Visual Design: Lucid, Patchwork and the Diamond Structure06:35 – Farewell to the Stacks: Sound Testing, Anxiety & Capacity Boost08:10 – 360 Crowd Experience: Boiler Room Influence & Multi-Level Club Design10:50 – First Reactions: Walking into the New Box for the First Time12:40 – First Ministry Memories: Gallery, Trance & Secret Sundays18:40 – Building New In-House Brands & Repositioning the Club24:40 – Marketing After the Sony Sale: From Compilations to Community29:00 – Post-Covid Club Culture: New Venues, Occasions & London’s Ecosystem32:10 – Why Ministry Creates Industry Leaders: Culture, Standards & Legacy35:40 – Lohan’s Origin Stories: How Ministry Instills Brand Pride39:25 – Where Ministry Sits in London, UK and Global Clubbing43:55 – Reaching Gen Z: Targeting, Community & Changing Drinking Habits47:05 – No & Low Alcohol in Clubland + Sober & Fitness Raving51:40 – 35th Anniversary Masterplan: Refurbs, Tours, Merch & Book54:50 – The Big 35th Birthday Weekend: October 3–556:00 – Office & Staff Stories: Culture, Chaos and Content Disasters59:45 – Legendary Staff Parties & Photocopier Mayhem1:04:10 – Will Ministry of Sound Still Exist in 35 Years?1:06:05 – Life-Changing Clubs: Robert Johnson, Amnesia, Watergate & The End1:07:45 – Dream Bookings in the New Box: DJ Harvey, Fatboy Slim & More1:09:40 – Closing: Tribute to Ministry & Hype for the Future

In this episode of Loud & Unfiltered, Josh Karpf sits down with one of the music industry’s most influential behind-the-scenes figures — Rick Blaskey. A veteran of the global music business, Rick has worked with some of the biggest artists, labels and campaigns in modern music history. From shaping global marketing strategies for superstar acts to navigating the inner workings of record labels and artist management, Rick offers a rare insider’s view into how the music industry really works. Across the conversation, Rick shares stories from decades inside the business — including early campaigns for Whitney Houston, insights into artist development, the role of luck and timing in music success, and how record labels identify and build global stars. The episode explores the evolution of the music industry, the realities of artist marketing, and the complex relationship between creativity, commerce and cultural moments that shape the biggest music careers.For anyone interested in music business, artist management, record label strategy, or the history of global music marketing, this is a fascinating deep dive with one of the industry’s most experienced operators. Subscribe to Loud&Unfiltered for more unfiltered conversations with music industry leaders, innovators, and cultural entrepreneurs and connect with us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jukeboxpr/ Key Moments:00:00 – Trailer00:46 – Host Intro: Rick Blaskey’s Legendary Music Career Overview02:09 – How Rick Got Started: From Opportunity Knocks to Polygram07:18 – Breaking Artists at Polygram: Million-Selling Records from TV08:53 – Moving to Arista: Barry Manilow, Aretha Franklin & Adult Pop12:22 – First Week in New York: Discovering Whitney Houston in a Club17:14 – Building Whitney Houston: Singles Strategy & Global Breakthrough19:27 – Cracking France: Whitney Houston, Serge Gainsbourg & Viral TV Moment28:13 – How Ghostbusters Happened: Film Meeting, Huey Lewis & Theme Song Battle35:44 – Golden Age of Music: Why 70s–90s Artists Are Timeless44:41 – Meeting Aretha Franklin: Detroit Supper Club & Dressing Room Piano51:30 – Leaving Major Labels: From EMI Frustrations to The Music & Media Partnership57:21 – Inventing Brand–Music Partnerships: Pepsi, Tina Turner & Rod Stewart1:07:01 – Branded Compilations & Comedy Albums: Doc Martens, Milktray & Holsten Pils1:11:49 – World in Union: Rugby World Cup Theme & Classical Crossover1:17:48 – Creating Three Lions: How England’s Football Anthem Was Born1:23:25 – Scotland, Missed Penalty & the Moment Three Lions Took Off1:25:23 – From Football to World Cups: Ricky Martin, Russell Watson & Stadium Voices1:28:35 – David Garrett & Classical Rock: Turning Violin into Pop Spectacle1:30:32 – New Musical ‘Soul Sisters’: Aretha, Tina, Whitney & Nile Rodgers1:35:22 – Rick’s Favourite Role: Songwriting, Bocelli & Reimagining Classics1:39:43 – Final Reflections: Audiences, Lyrics & Why Great Songs Last

In this episode of Loud & Unfiltered, we sit down with nightlife entrepreneur Kirk Allen, the man behind the relaunch of legendary Shoreditch nightclub XOYO, to unpack the realities of running nightclubs, building club brands, and marketing nightlife in the modern era. Kirk shares the full story behind purchasing XOYO, refurbishing the venue in just weeks, and documenting the entire process online — turning himself into an unlikely TikTok nightlife entrepreneur in the process. From promoting student nights in Leeds to running international festivals and owning multiple venues, Kirk has built a career around one thing: creating unforgettable nightlife experiences. Kirk also shares the inside story of running large scale projects including The Warehouse Leeds, Rise Festival, and international event experiences across Europe. Along the way we dive into the future of nightlife, the next generation of ravers, and why the club scene might actually be entering a new golden era. Subscribe to Loud&Unfiltered for more unfiltered conversations with music industry leaders, innovators, and cultural entrepreneurs and connect with us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jukeboxpr/ Key Moments:0:00 – Wild Early Promoter Days & Disaster Halloween Night0:31 – Podcast Intro & Who Is Kirk Allen?01:21 – Why Buy XOYO? Shoreditch, Licenses & Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity02:07 – Deal Timeline: From First Visit to Signing in December03:28 – Rebuilding XOYO in 4 Weeks: Basement, Budget & Changing the Plan05:25 – Building the A‑Team: Designers, Production & Trusted Partners07:12 – XOYO’s Legacy vs. New Chapter: Respecting the Past, Building the Future08:13 – TikTok Strategy: Founder Story, Transparency & Viral Moments10:19 – Opening Night: Press Day, First Party & Realising XOYO Is Back11:33 – Nail the Product: Micro-Tweaks, Dancefloor Research & Premier League Ambition13:22 – London vs Leeds Nightlife: Different Markets, Different Strategies15:36 – Kirk’s Role: Vision, Bookings, Marketing & Diary Management16:59 – Positivity About Nightlife: Fighting Negative Narratives in the Media19:03 – Leeds Club Scene: Then vs Now & Why It Still Works25:50 – The Warehouse, Leeds: Reviving a Legendary Club27:28 – Why Kirk Loves Owning Clubs: Designing the Perfect Night Out31:46 – Festivals & Trips: Rise Festival, Ski Weekends & Broken Bones32:56 – Create It: Building Branded Weekenders with Big Artists34:22 – Why Tenerife & Majorca Work: Flights, Seasons & Local Councils37:05 – When Things Go Wrong: Risk, Crises & Learning from Nightmares39:01 – Future Vision: No Masterplan, Just Grabbing Great Opportunities41:44 – The Clubs That Changed Kirk’s Life: Mission Leeds & Pacha Ibiza42:19 – Dream Bookings: Eric Prydz, Drumcode, Carl Cox & More44:01 – Amsterdam Dance Event, Night Time Economy & Policy Support45:03 – Promoter vs DJ: Why Kirk Chose Organising Over Performing

In this episode of Loud & Unfiltered, Josh Karpf sits down with rising UK DJ and producer Sasha Gigi to unpack the reality behind the breakthrough moments — from years of graft to playing Wembley alongside Fatboy Slim. Starting out as a singer-songwriter, Sasha built her way into the scene through university radio, relentless networking and years of DJing private events before stepping onto festival stages and major club lineups. The conversation explores her journey from Bristol’s underground scene to global opportunities, including playing Ibiza, going back-to-back with Idris Elba, and becoming the first DJ to perform on the Eurostar. Sasha shares honest insights into finding your sound as an artist, the pressure of social media in modern music careers, and why authenticity matters more than chasing trends. The episode also dives into the realities of being a female DJ in a male-dominated industry, the importance of community, and the balance between production, performance and personal brand. Subscribe to Loud&Unfiltered for more unfiltered conversations with music industry leaders, innovators, and cultural entrepreneurs and connect with us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jukeboxpr/ Key Moments:0:00 – Opening Story: From Fatboy Slim at Wembley to “Be Authentic”0:34 – Podcast Intro: About the Show & What Listeners Can Expect0:55 – Meet Sasha Gigi: Rising UK DJ, Producer & Vocalist02:07 – Early Years: Saxophone, Singing in the Car & Falling in Love with Music02:40 – Bristol Days: Uni Radio, House Music & Discovering the Club Scene04:00 – Getting In the Door: Artist Interviews, Hoxton Radio & Fashion Week Gigs05:20 – From Waiting Tables to Wanting Decks: The Pivot Toward DJing06:11 – Memorable Early Interviews: Jungle, Tour Buses & Glastonbury Memories09:30 – Years of Graft: 2017 Onward, Bar Gigs, Private Parties & Festivals10:31 – Meeting Manager Katie Ellis: Networking Your Way into Top Management11:50 – Lockdown Creativity: Band Project, Zoom Sessions & Songwriting for Others15:40 – The Call: Landing a Support Slot for Fatboy Slim at Wembley18:50 – First Time in Ibiza: Opening for Idris Elba & A Surprise Back‑to‑Back21:20 – Confidence, Craft & Finding Your Own DJ Sound22:50 – Studio vs Stage: Producing, Toplining & Testing Tracks in the Club25:26 – Unique Gigs: First DJ Ever on the Eurostar & Lab 54 Pop‑Ups26:47 – Clubs vs Festivals: Intimate Rooms, Superclubs & Arena Shows28:15 – Inside the Electronic Music Industry: Living in Clubs & Constant Networking28:50 – Being a Female DJ & Producer in a Male‑Dominated Scene30:17 – Working with a Female Powerhouse Manager & Cracking the Underground31:31 – Diversity, Lineups & Ticket Sales: The Reality for Promoters35:29 – What’s Next: Ministry of Sound, New Agent & Summer Festival Plans37:21 – DJ Career Advice: Cutting Through the Noise & Choosing Your Lane40:39 – Artists & Labels to Watch: Maccabi, Hot Creations & Female‑Led Crews42:06 – Quick‑Fire Round: Life‑Changing Clubs, Albums & Secret Weapons44:07 – Closing Thoughts: Graft, Persistence & Inspiring the Next Generation of DJs

In this powerful and unfiltered episode of Loud & Unfiltered, host AJosh Karpf sits down with Sam Divine, one of the most influential figures in UK dance music, for an honest conversation about longevity, reinvention, sobriety, and the future of the club scene. With a career spanning over 25 years, Sam opens up about the realities of life on the road, burning out in an industry built on excess, and why choosing sobriety became a turning point not just personally, but creatively. From sleeping in her car for early gigs to headlining global festivals, this episode traces the full arc of a modern dance music career without filters. Sam also dives deep into the launch of 555, her new label, tour and cultural movement built around grassroots venues, affordability, and artist freedom. She explains why five-hour sets, £5 tickets, and supporting emerging DJs are essential to preserving club culture — and why now is the moment to go back to the beginning. The conversation also explores female representation in dance music, the pressure of social media, the myth of overnight success, and why authenticity matters more than ever in an algorithm-driven industry. Subscribe to Loud&Unfiltered for more unfiltered conversations with music industry leaders, innovators, and cultural entrepreneurs and connect with us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jukeboxpr/ Key Moments:0:00 – Welcome to LOUD & Unfiltered + Sam Divine Intro01:32 – Life on Tour, Time Off & Miami Music Week Plans02:13 – Shutting Down a Brooklyn Block with Joe’s Pizza Set03:29 – Asia Tour, Burnout & Learning to Pace Herself04:34 – One Year Clean & Sober: The Reality of a Sober DJ Rider06:57 – What Is 555? The Story Behind the Angel Number Brand07:28 – 555 UK Grassroots Tour: Cities, Venues & £5 Tickets09:14 – Saving Grassroots Clubs & The Lost Art of the Warm-Up Set11:15 – Five-Hour Sets & Relearning How to Play All Night Long16:34 – From Divine Sounds to 555 Records: A New Label Era21:39 – Meet Nessie: Building a New Wave of 555 Artists22:39 – Championing Female DJs & Diversity on Lineups28:33 – Hard House Beginnings, Soulful House Pivot & Defected Breakthrough32:09 – Writing From Pain: Divorce, Rehab & ‘Scars’38:04 – What’s Next: Ibiza, Croatia, 555 Expansion & New Artists41:33 – Quickfire: Club, Albums & Influences That Shaped Sam Divine43:21 – Playing After Kerri Chandler & Her All-Time DJ Hero44:10 – Hot Artists to Watch: Nessie, Alisha, Olive F, Arielle Free45:20 – Closing Thoughts: Gratitude, Sobriety & 555 Mission