The latest episode of the Baller Alert Show was a powerful discussion featuring a panel of successful female DJs who shared their experiences navigating the male-dominated music industry. Hosted by Ferrari Simmons and BT, the episode welcomed DJ Penny Lane, DJ Monae, and DJ Suga Shae, who opened up about the challenges, triumphs, and realities of being a woman in the DJ world.
The conversation kicked off with the DJs introducing themselves and sharing their journeys, from starting in radio and clubs to working with major artists like Jagged Edge and Total. Each woman has carved out her own lane, balancing entrepreneurship, radio gigs, club residencies, and even motherhood.
The Reality of Being a Female DJ
One of the central topics was the double standard female DJs face compared to their male counterparts. The guests agreed that women must work twice as hard, not just in their skillset but also in their appearance.
“We have to come looking better, mix better, and talk on the mic better,” DJ Sugar Shae explained. “If we don’t, people will question why they didn’t just book a male DJ instead.”
DJ Penny Lane noted that female DJs are often treated as outsiders when entering the industry, facing skepticism about their skills until they prove themselves. DJ Monae added that while talent is important, appearance still plays a role in getting booked—something that male DJs rarely have to consider.
The Battle for Respect and Fair Pay
Another key discussion centered on the fight for fair pay. The DJs revealed that many promoters try to undercut their rates, sometimes offering the same pay for closing sets as they do for openers.
“If you’re paying me the same as the opener, why would I stay until 3 a.m.?” DJ Penny Lane questioned.
The women also addressed the jealousy and competition that exists not only among male and female DJs but also between women in the industry. They emphasized that unity and setting a standard rate could help shift the industry dynamics in their favor.
Navigating the Club Scene as a Woman
Beyond industry politics, the DJs spoke about the challenges of working in clubs, from handling song requests to dealing with unwanted attention from both men and women.
“Security should protect the DJ booth more,” one DJ noted, pointing out how clubgoers frequently invade their space while they’re working.
They also discussed how female DJs bring a different energy to events, often focusing on playing music that gets women moving, which naturally attracts the men and creates a better vibe.
Balancing Personal Life and Business
Each DJ shared insight into how they manage their personal lives and demanding schedules. DJ Penny Lane, a new mom, talked about dating men who understand her career and aren’t jealous of her success. DJ Suet explained that she takes time away from Atlanta to travel and unwind, while DJ Monae prefers to keep her personal life off social media.
“Time is the most valuable thing,” DJ Suet said. “I want to get up and do whatever I want—go to Italy if I want spaghetti. That’s the life I’m working toward.”
Looking Ahead: A Live DJ Panel?
As the episode wrapped, the hosts and DJs floated the idea of hosting a live panel event, bringing together male and female DJs, promoters, and club owners to discuss industry issues in an open forum.
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