DJ Off-Duty: Samantha Michelle

Faye Bradley
1 day ago
3 min read

There’s a magnetic duality to Samantha Michelle — equal parts downtown cool and cinematic soul. A New York–based DJ, music producer, and filmmaker, she’s built a world where rhythm meets ritual, spinning sets that feel less like performances and more like portals. From Glastonbury to Cannes, and residencies for Dolce & Gabbana and The Wall Street Journal, her soundscapes have drawn the kind of crowds who move for both the music and the moment. We sat down with her to learn how she unwinds between sets.

How did you first get started in DJing?

I got into DJing by total accident. I plugged in my iPod (yep, this was 2015!) at a party at the Groucho Club in London, and stood behind the booth playing deep, nostalgic bangers. After that night, people kept asking me to DJ parties, and I resisted for the longest time. It just wasn’t something I aspired to, but eventually, I caved, because admittedly, it's really good fun, and then, rather quickly, it all started to snowball. Ten years on, and many moments that have blown my mind later, it feels clear, DJ’g chose me, as opposed to the other way around.

What’s been your biggest pinch-me moment so far?

Earlier this month, I made my Webster Hall debut, opening for Cascada. I’ve played plenty of big venues before, but never one where the crowd felt so completely locked in. There’s something iconic about Webster Hall — it’s steeped in history, a true landmark of New York’s music scene, and the energy inside is almost electric. Standing on that stage, casting out wishes and visions, feeling the collective spirit rise—it’s hard to describe. I’ve never felt quite so powerful.

Who inspires you most right now?

LP Giobbi is my inspiration right now. She’s such a force for femme presence in dance music right now. And she leads with such warmth and soulfulness.

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What’s a typical morning in your life like?

Before I even touch my phone, I write a gratitude list and meditate — my biggest life hack. Then I check notifications, take my dog Bear out, journal, and glance at emails. Whenever possible, I reserve the morning hours for creative work, whether it’s music or writing. Starting the day in that flow state helps me feel aligned, centred, and ready for whatever comes next.

What’s your secret guilty pleasure?

Vegan ice cream with rainbow sprinkles.

Three beauty products always in your bag?

Charlotte Tilbury’s lip liner in Pillow Talk. Mac’s eyeliner pencil in Feline. Pat McGrath Labs Skin Fetish Highlighter & Balm Duo.

Skincare step you’ll never skip?

I always wash my face. But that’s pretty much the only guarantee – I keep it simple!

Favourite fragrance?

I have a longtime signature scent that I never stray from — I like to wear something that feels uniquely me. I usually mix Agent Provocateur with Molecule.