A Native from Rennes-France and now rooted in the Parisian scene, Coleeeette cratfs her sets as conversation between eras and groovy aesthetics, UK-inspired elements meets worldwide sound. She is a young Dj but she is spinning internationally, allowing her to glide effortlessly from intimate event to huge dancefloor. She dig vinyl too, you can find her diggin' in crates of house, deep house, tech house, acid... Meetings with Coleeeette, also knows as co-arstitic director of Olympiades Festival.

Hello, a glass of?

An Espresso Martini. I love coffee, it gives me the energy I need and a little kick before playing.

To dress, a pair of…?

Loafers. Comfortable, versatile, and often invisible under the booth. That way I can feel at ease while keeping a discreet style.

Your first approach to Djing?

My first encounter with DJing happened in Rennes, in Bretagne (Brittany). Through parties, I discovered the decks as a natural extension of my love for music. Festivals, free parties, nights out… I spent a long time on the dancefloor before feeling the need to step behind the decks myself, to create and share energy in my own way.

Why the nickname Coleeeette?

It was a friend who gave me this nickname at first. Very quickly, I thought of the writer Colette, a feminist and badass figure of her time. I liked the idea of carrying that name as a nod to a woman who left her mark.

Your first approach to beatmaking? 

I’ve always been familiar with software thanks to video games; as a teenager, I experimented with GarageBand, and now I’m really diving into Ableton Live. I have so many ideas and inspiration playlists: I just need to take the time to bring them all to life.

When you're digging, what obsesses you?

The bassline above all. I love its roundness, its depth, its reliefs. I also pay close attention to stereo, to textures and vocals. That’s why I play house: it’s what makes me vibrate.

Your maximum BPM?

I love broken rhythms and drum’n’bass, but I never go beyond 130 BPM. Past that, it loses the balance that speaks to me.

If I tell you The Secret Stage?

The Secret Stage was born for my 30th birthday, as part of the Olympiad festival I co-organized. I booked DJs I love like Acid Astrid, Alex Costes, Track Advisor…, for an intimate yet powerful stage. It’s a project that still follows me today: secret stage, secret artist.

If I tell You Liban?

Gérard recently booked me and it was a real experience, incredible gigs, extraordinary hospitality, and a scene so rich it makes you want to stay in residency for life, habibi.

If I tell you rap?

I think of the American ghettos of the 70s, the birth of a movement that gave a voice to those who didn’t have one. The art of rhyme, the power of words, a breath of freedom. And also my geek side, nourished by the soundtracks of 2000s video games.

Best adage?

“Less is more.” Those who know me understand why. I strongly believe in the power of clarity and minimalism. True in music, and in life too.

Mountain or sea?

The sea, without hesitation. I’m Breton, I grew up by the ocean. As a child, I used to sail with my parents. I love fishing. For me, the sea is the greatest garden in the world.

Top 3 favorite record label?

Strictly Rhythm, Jack Trax and Nervous Records. Three pillars that embody the roots and essence of house.

Your top 5 new releases?

- Eden Burns "Drums Are Dangerous"
- Olivier Romero "Trip"
- Roza Terenzi "La Música"
- Janeret "Mantrax"
- Emi Ömar "Chut Hello"

Your top 5 old releases?

- David Keno "Mamas Mamas"
- CJ Bolland "Sugar Is Sweeter"
- LaTour "People Are Still Having Sex"
- House Music "Eddie Amador"
- Chez Damier "Sometimes I Feel Like"

Best memory on stage?

In the Philippines, in Siargao, at a bar called Barbossa. I was with my best friend, impressed by the DJ before me. In the end, I delivered one of my best sets. Magical: the heat, the crowd, the dance.

If I tell You DJoon?

An audience that dances and knows why it’s there. Not a crowd hanging around in the smoking area, but true music lovers. It’s one of my favorite gigs — thanks to Delagroove for inviting me. I hope to play there again soon.

What job would you like to do if you weren't a DJ?

A job tied to music: curating artists, pushing forward the talents I meet along the way.

What’s next?

More production, turning ideas into reality. Playing more internationally, staying active on the Paris scene. Always house, groove, and good vibes.

Interviewed by cosh... / photo ©