Music instilled in her bones and a positive energy in her veins, Maldives’ first paid female DJ Syzygy (Anjie) set out for a rough ride, as she shares the story about making her dream come true.
“I was always intrigued by music,” she says. “But I never set out to do this till quite recent, in 2009. It was during my days abroad that I was truly moved by the beats. The biggest thrill for me was playing around with the mixer and I was extremely curious to learn.”
With her mind set, in 2009 Anjie completed her basic Beginner’s course from DJ Academy, Sri Lanka. But, it was not without challenges.
“As soon as I moved back home there were limitations. I had no place to practice, no setup and I felt as if I could lose touch at it any minute. So I decided to save up and make my own”.
For Anjie this finally became a reality in 2011.
“After much struggle and waiting, it finally happened. I had my own setup where I could practice whenever I wanted. For me, that was a huge step.”
The year 2013 found Anjie setting out for another learning experience. It was at SAE Thailand where she completed an Electronic Music Production Course that undoubtedly helped her to brush up her skills and align her more towards her dreams. Influenced by Progressive House, Tech House, Techno and Minimal, Anjie believes that ‘you don’t just play to make people dance; you play for good music to fill the air.’
Today, she awaits a signed-seal contract with one of the best employer’s around, while enjoying a business partnership with her father. When we got the chance to meet this self-made Diva, I just had to ask;
Q. What was the biggest challenge you faced here in Maldives?
The fact that I was a private individual seeking employment in this field. I didn’t come from an association so it was very hard to start off and set an image. There was this one time when I felt so de-motivated by a comment, particularly because it stated two things which I cannot change; that I was a girl and a local. That really hit hard. If it was something regarding my music, or the way I play, I could’ve always tried to fix it and make it better. This was different though. In this case, there was no way I could gain more ground. I am a girl and I am not sorry for that, nor am I sorry for being a local.
Q. Your alias is pretty interesting. What’s the significance?
Well, [laughs] Syzygy refers to three celestial bodies in one alignment. It’s when the sun, moon and earth align into one single line and that’s when eclipse occurs too. I found it very deep.
Q. What’s your biggest achievement up-to date?
Participating in the RAVE show “Cupid 2014” abroad would definitely be it. It wasn’t just about getting the exposure and meeting so many different people, but getting compliments from random strangers who heard my mix, let alone, top DJ’s from different parts of the world expressing their feelings towards my performance, became such a thrill. It’s one of the best things to see people enjoying and moving to the music that you’re making.
Q. How do you chill out?
Anything that gives me an adrenaline rush. I love playing the PS3; Need for Speed is my thing. I enjoy swimming — well actually, I love the water. Currently I am trying out wind surfing. Anything related to water sports and I’m in!
Besides that, I’m into documentaries and listening to audio books.
Q. You’re into business as well, right?
Yes. I don’t entirely depend on my being a DJ for the money I make or the life I am building. You always need a backup. I am planning to open up a shop very soon. Other than that, I help out my Dad at his firm. I’m a Marketing Manager outside my DJ life, as well. My family is so supportive and I wouldn’t have been able to go this far without their understanding. See, you need to keep a balance. DJ -ing is my passion but once you come back to reality, life goes on. You have to work hard.
Q. What advice would you give to those who pursue the same interest?
I would love to see more girls stepping up and following this field at Maldives. And be it a guy or girl, I’d advise them to follow their heart. If you don’t have the genuine passion there is no kick. You can’t just act out that you’re into something. When you’re really into it, you move differently. You may not even notice the crowd. You move to your own rhythm. If you want it, don’t ever give up. Never stop till you achieve it. If you feel like you’re struggling, be patient. I had moments where I thought I would just drown in my sorrow [laughs]. But in due time, everything falls in to place and even the right people come along.
Dreams are never wrong. Take a moment and think. There’s always a reason to move forward. Don’t just give up due to obstacles. Angie had her own share of doubts at some points, but the light at the end of the tunnel proved far more worthy.
- For more updates on Angie’s current works, follow her on her page Facebook/A n g i e
So, what are you waiting for? Start working on your dream.
