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Born in the colourful landscapes of the Netherlands, DJ Playing with Knives, whose real name remains an alluring mystery, has carved a unique space in the global DJ scene. Her journey began in her homeland but swiftly took a pivotal turn when she relocated to London, a city pulsating with diverse musical cultures and histories.
Her style, a rich tapestry woven from her inspirations – the gritty, soulful beats of New York, the house rhythms of Chicago, Detroit’s techno legacy, and London’s eclectic music scene – has made her a standout figure. She doesn’t just play music; she narrates a global musical odyssey, seamlessly blending genres from Disco to New Wave, Soul to Funk, R&B to Hip Hop, House to Techno, and beyond.
DJ Playing with Knives honed her craft on dance floors across the world, absorbing the energy and vibes that would later become integral to her sets. She has shared the stage with legends like Lil Louis, Theo Parrish, Idris Elba, Norman Jay, Madlib, Mos Def, and Talib Kweli, marking her as a formidable talent in the industry. Her ability to curate unique experiences caught the attention of celebrities like Madonna, Dave Chappelle, Dua Lipa, Mark Ronson, Harry Styles, Taylor Swift, Michele Lamy, Marina Abramovic, and Damien Hirst, for whom she played at their afterparties, showcasing her versatility and appeal across different audiences. DJ Playing with Knives is not just a DJ; she’s an artist, a storyteller who uses turntables as her canvas.
London’s underground scene reveres her, not just for her musical prowess but for her commitment to the art of DJing. Her all-vinyl sets at Chiltern Firehouse and Annabel’s are legendary, offering a pure, unadulterated sound experience. Her residencies, spanning from Sketch, Maison Estelle, The Standard to the Soho Houses worldwide, including Amsterdam, Berlin, and Barcelona, are testaments to her global appeal and versatility. Her reputation extends beyond clubs and private events, as she has graced the airwaves of NTS Radio, The Lot Radio, and Operator Radio, bringing her unique sound to a wider audience.
What truly sets DJ Playing with Knives apart is her intuitive understanding of music’s power to unite and transport. Her sets are not just about the tracks she plays but the journey she takes her audience on – a journey that transcends borders and genres, leaving her audience in a state of euphoric transcendence. As she continues to spin her stories and beats, DJ Playing with Knives isn’t just playing music; she’s weaving the soundtrack of a global dance floor.
Catch her set from 5pm-9pm.