The electronic music industry has historically been male-dominated, with women often underrepresented both behind the decks and in production studios.
However, a growing number of talented female artists have been reshaping the scene, challenging industry norms, and carving out their own space. Among these trailblazers is Maritza Correa, a Colombian electronic musician whose passion has propelled her from her roots in Colombia to sold-out performances across the globe.
When the BDLife met her in Nairobi, her manager made it clear—she was in Kenya not for performances, but for a well-deserved rest. What makes a great DJ?
“It’s an open-ended question; you never really know if you’ll make it or not. My philosophy is simple: there is no rush—enjoy the journey, have fun, and remain professional.”
As a woman disrupting the electronic music scene, has she faced challenges?
“When I started, there were definitely hurdles. Today, I don’t feel the same way. In fact, I see a shift where male counterparts are more open to collaboration and support, rather than competition. The focus now is on delivering great shows together, rather than outdoing one another,” she explains.
With a decade in the industry as both a DJ and a producer, Maritza offers advice to aspiring female DJs.
“There’s no need to rush. The journey is slow, much like a forest growing—it doesn’t happen overnight, but in time, it reaches its full potential. Music isn’t a race; it’s not about who rises the fastest, but who endures.”
Does the profession pay?
“Money is essential for survival,” she quips. For her, the financial rewards have been substantial. She recalls an especially lucrative gig when Porsche hired her to perform at a private event during a Formula 1 race in Mexico.
“It was an exclusive party for drivers and staff. I played for a few hours and walked away with $15,000 (Sh1.93 million).”
Growing up in Colombia, a country deeply embedded in dancehall and reggaeton culture, Maritza defied expectations by gravitating toward electronic music.
“Music, in general, is my passion—whether it’s salsa, electronic, or bachata. But professionally, electronic music is where my heart lies.” Her decision to embrace electronic music was deliberate.
“Reggaeton isn’t a genre I personally connect with. I find it too simplistic and repetitive, often dominated by overly sexualised lyrics. I don’t believe it truly represents South American musical identity. We are far more diverse than that.”
Having played to audiences worldwide, how does she view her experiences in Africa?
“I still have much to explore across the continent, but the energy here is phenomenal. Music originated in Africa, and genres like Afro-house trace their roots here. The audience is always engaged, always dancing—it’s a DJ’s dream.”
And Kenya?
“They say a country’s culture is reflected in its food, and Kenyan cuisine is fresh, natural, and delicious. But beyond that, the energy here is unmatched. Kenyan audiences immerse themselves in music like no other. The connection between DJs and the crowd is extraordinary. I’d return a thousand times just to experience it again—and, of course, to see the wildlife.”
Does Kenya need to do more to promote electronic music?
“Kenyan music is already recognised globally, which is a strong starting point. What’s needed is greater international exposure for local DJs. The world consumes music from Kenya, but not enough people know the artists behind it. More Kenyan DJs touring abroad would help bridge that gap.”
Did her parents ever question her career path?
“If they had to choose, they’d probably have preferred I pursued medicine,” she says with a chuckle. “Not because they oppose my DJ career, but because they understand the risks involved. There have been moments when we feared for our safety due to unruly crowds. Still, they trust and support me in whatever I choose to do.”
As a globetrotter, which destination has left the greatest impression on her?
“Guatemala City stands out. I played to a packed stadium, and the energy was electrifying.”
