18 Questions With introduces 1883 readers to the brightest young artists, actors, creatives and beyond. From childhood memories and guilty pleasures to their latest ventures and upcoming projects, our goal is to bring you closer to the people who inspire and entertain us. 

DJ, producer and GRL GANG founder JEANIE is tired of the electronic music scene being a boys club, and is actively working towards pushing inclusivity the best way she knows how. A few years back, JEANIE founded GRL GANG, a label and community dedicated to expanding the presence of women and non-binary individuals in dance music. And now, having gained paramount recognition for her bass-heavy sound and high-octane performances, JEANIE has secured her place among industry tastemakers. 

JEANIE’s brand new EP Disturbing Data is out everywhere, and she recently sat down to chat with 1883 about her favourite song off the EP, her work towards inclusivity in dance music, and jamming out to Harry Styles when preparing to hit the stage. 

What’s one exciting thing that happened to you this week?

I locked in a festival for October that I’ve never played before, but have heard great things about. October is my favorite month of the year, so I’m always stoked when I get to play shows during spooky season.

What was the last thing you read?

I’m currently reading Rick Rubin’s ‘The Creative Act: A Way of Being.’

Favorite memory growing up?

Probably a Spring Break trip that I took with my best friends in high school (if that counts). I’m still friends with the entire group and it was such a fun and chaotic trip that we still look back on – I think I got most of my heavy partying out early in life.

Where was the last place you traveled to?

I was in Tampa for Sunset Music Festival. In my opinion, Tampa and/or Orlando should be up there when it comes to the bass capitals of the U.S… Florida goes hard.

What was the last thing that made you laugh?

Probably my boyfriend! 

What’s your night time ritual?

Skincare, reluctantly brushing my teeth and unfortunately (but most importantly) probably taking something to help me fall asleep.

Who would be on your dream dinner party guest list?

Aubrey Plaza, Rihanna and Gordon Ramsay (but if he could cook it as well, that’d be ideal).

Favorite quote from a film or TV show?

“I feel God in this Chili’s tonight.” – The Office

What’s your go-to karaoke song?

I’ve actually never done karaoke, which is great news for everyone around me as I have probably one of the worst singing voices imaginable. But if it was a life or death situation, I would probably go with ‘Sugar, We’re Goin Down” by Fall Out Boy or anything by Paramore.

Favorite item in your closet?

Probably my R-13 leather jacket, which is conveniently also the most expensive one. I don’t wear it often, but I feel way more hardcore than I actually am when I do.

Congrats on your latest EP Disturbing Data – what can you tell us about it?

Thank you! It’s been a long time in the making. It seems like my most adventurous project to date, which is mostly due to the fact that I stepped out of my comfort zone and tried new approaches when it comes to production. I also collaborated with my friends Felmax and Sqishi, which brought new levels of experimentation into the mix as I admittedly prefer to work alone.

Do you have a personal favorite song on the EP? What would it be?

It would have to be “S.U.B” – it was kind of a breakthrough moment for me after going through one of my longest creative blocks to date and it’s the track that gets the best feedback live. I’ve been teasing it for probably about a year now and I’m stoked for everyone to finally have it.

In a few short words, describe your music for someone that’s never heard it.

Different, but in a good way. I feel incredibly lucky that I can experiment with different genres and styles and still receive positive feedback from my fans.

I love what you’re doing with GRL GANG – how does it feel to be spearheading an initiative to push inclusivity in the electronic music community? 

Thank you so much! It’s one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done. It can be hard to continue pushing for inclusivity in an industry that is so historically favorable towards men, but the incredible feedback I get keeps me going.

What made you want to start GRL GANG? 

When I was starting out as an artist, it felt like a massive boys club and I constantly thought about how much easier it would be if there was a group of women that could support each other as much as the men of the industry do. I was also conveniently learning more about the Riot Grrrl movement at the time, so the idea evolved from there! 

Out of all the festivals you’re playing this year, is there one you’re most excited for?

Tomorrowland! I’ve been twice (prior to starting my artist project) and it has been life-changing both times, so to be returning as an artist just seems completely surreal.

What artists / songs are on your pre-show playlist? 

It definitely varies, but at the moment I’m listening to a lot of Bring Me The Horizon, Paramore and a new addition to my rotation… Harry Styles.

Where do you hope your music career takes you this year and beyond?

I’m just hoping to explore as many new places and meet as many new people as possible – being able to meet fans who I’ve only ever interacted with online is one of my favorite parts of touring. Before starting my artist project, I was just a fan of the music, so being on the other side of it and hearing how my music has inspired people or even helped them through a hard time is an indescribable feeling. Plus, being able to visit new cities from just my music alone is pretty insane. Beyond that, I just hope to keep growing my own project along with GRL GANG! 

Disturbing Data is out now.