Interview by Carol Wright | Photographer: Bellamy Brewster

We got to chat with DJ Callie Reiff about exploring a new sound in her song “Crash Into Me” and how she is virtually staying connected to listeners during the pandemic.

New York is known for being a fast-paced city full of hustlers and go-getters. Growing up in New York City did that energy motivate you to pursue your own dreams?

Thanks for having me! Yes, I always am so thankful to have been born and raised in New York City because it continues to inspire me every day. Seeing so many creatives surround me from such a young age motivated me to do what I love.

What initially sparked your interest in being a DJ?

Music is a huge part of my identity so I knew I’d want to do something in music eventually. I started out as a drummer but heard about DJing from a few friends and wanted to try it out just out of curiosity. I found a DJ school in New York called Dubspot and started going there when I was 12 years old. I went there to do vinyl record mixing lessons and instantly fell in love with it… and I’ve never stopped loving it since.

Tell us about your newest single “Crash Into Me” and the new sound you’re exploring.

I’m so happy that it’s out! The song is really special to me since it’s introducing this new sound of mine I’ve been working on for the past 2 years. I like to call this new sound “indie club” — I’ve been focusing on songwriting and collaborating with vocalists while also keeping that New York club energy. I think “Crash Into Me” represents the perfect escapism we all need right now. Close your eyes and picture yourself in a huge music festival mosh pit. 

Madison Daniel is featured on the song. What was that collaborative process like?

Madison is the BEST! I love her! Since we made this during lockdown we still haven’t even met each other in real life yet, just FaceTimed and Zoomed from Australia to New York. She sent over a few vocal ideas and lyrics and we ended up going from there, working on the melodies and the rest of the production for. We both feel so connected to “Crash Into Me” and so the song came together pretty fast. 

Throughout this weird time of few concerts and a lack of live music how have you been keeping yourself connected with your listeners?

It’s definitely been hard to not play any shows and connect and meet people in person but I know that we are all in this together. I am lucky to have my equipment in my bedroom so I’ve been doing DJ livestreams, like taking over Sofi Tukker’s Twitch channel, going live on my Instagram, chatting with people, and so on. It’s been a nice way to reach out to everyone for the time being and it’s helped inspire me.

What advice do you have for aspiring singers?

Never throw away an idea and taking your time with your art is the most important part of the journey! Also, don’t forget to have fun!