Bardot, The Electric Pickle: Grace Jones

How did you get involved with DJing? Did anyone teach you?
"The DJ bug started up a long time ago. Being a dancer by nature, I always surrounded myself with DJs and musicians. I've always been in the nightlife, so one of the spots I would naturally gravitate to was beside or behind the booth. Being the DJ is the source, and that always attracted me. One day I was hanging with my friend Sasha Lauzon — who is Ess in Ess & Emm — and she just put me on the spot and made me start learning. I kept with it and here I am! I've always played a bit differently. From new wave to grunge to goth, it all just depends on my mood."

Besides DJing, what other things do you get involved in around town?
"I'm a professional dancer. I try to involve myself in the performing arts. I do different types of gigs, both commercial and über abstract and artistic. I also teach and choreograph at my friend Vanessa Caamano's dance studio called Miami Dance Theatre." 

Where can we find you on the weekend?
"I hop around to a couple of places. Vagabond is usually my first stop. They always have amazing music and a lot of the staff is like family to me. I also enjoy The Electric Pickle. They bring a lot of lovely electronic sounds. If I wanna hang with the kids and just talk about life, The Corner Bar is a great spot."

When you are playing out, do you dress any differently? Or do you just come as you are? What are your current theories on your gig fashion?
"I always dress the way that I feel. Being a performer, I feel like, if I'm DJing, I should dress the part. So I guess I will add extra swag to look a bit more untouchable… if that makes sense. My theory is always the same: A woman should feel powerful when she leaves her home. So whatever makes you feel that way, by all means, wear it!"

Lastly: What is your must-play jam for the summer? The one you are currently obsessed with and will be on heavy rotation for the foreseeable future?
"Major Lazer's 'Get Free' (featuring Amber of Dirty Projectors). I love it because its tropical and laid back. The way you should feel in the summer."

Photographed by Justin Namon