Soundsystem ON AIR is our first ever virtual music event, raising money for the World Health Organisation's COVID-19 Solidarity Response fund, and Domestic Violence charity Refuge.
Refuge are on the front lines in providing support and sanctuary for people caught in violent and potentially life threatening domestic relations. According to The Guardian, the COVID-19 lockdown is set to cause instances of domestic violence to rise by over 20% in the UK, and higher in other parts of the world.
The World Health Organisation's COVID-19 Response Fund is a global resource for all countries dealing with this unprecedented crisis. Support for medical institutions, nurses, doctors and humanitarian agencies is provided across borders, as we, and the WHO, appeal to all nations for solidarity and assistance.
To support these causes, on Friday May 1st, 12 DJs from around the world, will clock in for an epic 9 hour stream of live sets and special guest appearances, curated by UK creative tour de force, BossyLDN. We caught up with the duo last Summer (remember Summer?) so they could show us round London, to the soundtrack of an exclusive 10-track playlist. Check it out below, and see you at Highsnobiety Soundsystem ON AIR, from 12.00pm EST on Friday, May 1st.
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Still reeling from the glorious pandemonium of Notting Hill Carnival, defiant young Londoners are keen as ever to demonstrate the rude health of the UK capital's creative community. Empowered equally by entrepreneurial spirit and undeniably good taste, Izzy Steven and Dhamirah "Dee" Coombes are the literal personification of this; to the point that it's reflected in their shared moniker. As Bossy LDN, not only do Izzy and Dee cover pretty much the entire sprawling mass of the capital's various cultural hubs, but also a whole spectrum of creative endeavors. DJs themselves, the pair quickly gained notoriety in the city for their high-energy parties, recently working with both Bree Runway and Meagan Thee Stallion on intimate, one-off events at unexpected local venues.
Beyond the had-to-be-there functions, BossyLDN also lend their curative nous to collaborative brand projects and a regular NTS Radio Show, and often take time to run workshops and community-driven events - all the time maintaining their message of empowerment and reliance without ever having to compromise an irresistible sense of pure fun.
Check out the interview and exclusive Spotify playlist below.
Who are you, where are you from, and what do you do?
Izzy and Dee of Bossy LDN. We are a DJ and creative duo from London.
What makes London different to any other place on Earth?
London is a cosmopolitan and diverse melting pot, enabling creative freedom and opportunities we might not ever see outside of it! London is full of culture you can take inspiration from, just walking down the road. And that's what gives you the freedom to be whoever you want.
What restaurant do you go to when you're trying to impress?
NOBU HOTEL, DARLING.
Where do you go for comfort food?
Nando’s (first and foremost) or Uncle Levi's All Island Grill in Dalston. We also can’t forget our favorite little Vietnamese spot, Hanoi Cafe in Shoreditch.
What spot in the City do you never get tired of visiting?
Dee: The National gallery.
Izzy: The gates at the start of green park which were designed by Princess Diana, there is also a tiny secret flower garden in Kew Gardens were I go with my Dad. It's super special.
Which store do you go to when you're looking to spend big?
Chanel, Browns East, Liberty, Selfridges, DSM.
Where in London do you go if you're looking for some peace and tranquility?
Izzy: This question is actually hard - but most properly to my Nana's house to be honest. I need to learn how to relax but I find peace in running and mediation.
Dee: For me there’s nothing like spending a night at home, doing a face mask, having a bath, burning Bougie Candles and listening to music.
What's your most coveted grail (clothing/possession)?
Izzy: My gold chain that my Dad bought me in San Fran, on which I have an original moving Mickey Mouse pendent my Grandad gave to me when I was born. Also a little teddy called Derek
Dee: My Minolta x-300S, my Dad gave this camera to me and it has captured beautiful photos from my childhood, up until now!
Briefly talk us through your playlist - what are some of the tracks that remind you of London, and why?
We curated this playlist keeping in mind the atmosphere and energy we bring to all of our sets/events. We’re always on the look out for new underground sounds and artists worldwide so we wanted to showcase that.
Our overall music taste is pretty eclectic so this playlist varies but we wanted to create a Bossy sound to listen to in the lead up to our Mantra residency!
