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[title]Mae has been in the underground electronica scene since the beginning. This Thai DJ is known for her subtle mixing skills and dynamic sets that focus on the darker side of techno. The deck goddess got into the music scene by accident—she was working as a styling assistant for Harper’s Bazaar and would always put on a playlist of eclectic tunes during shoots. Soon, fashion insiders were on to her unique taste in music. She actually debuted as a DJ at fashion show for popular local brand Flynow.
This music lover also co-founded Go Grrrls, a queer dance party that combines music, art, fashion and certified good times. Mae, who’s part of the LGBT community, wanted to create a safe space for people like her by using music as a common denominator.
Mae Happyair
What do you think of the scene now?
There are obviously more techno clubs these days, so more DJs are eager to play this kind of music. I like it and I do not regret at all that I quit my permanent job to do music. Music has become my priority, and I give it 100 percent every day, then it annexes into art and other stuff. Also, I'm gay, so I wanted to create a space for myself. I have my own way, and I'm proud of it. I have music that I love, so I use that as my lead. If I don't do this, I wouldn't know where to go because there's nowhere that plays this kind of music. I think it would be great if we could collaborate more to create a more significant electronic scene. And we might even change the taste of people here who would usually listen to other types of music. And I think if we keep working hard, within five years or so we can become huge."
Techno, tech-house, acid house and other subgenres within electronic music seem to be emerging from the underground in Bangkok. Why do you think that is?
I think it's because people in the industry work really hard and also because there are more venues for us to play at, thanks to all these open-minded club owners. Several years back, there weren’t many clubs that would be open for DJs to play this kind of music. Techno or tech-house was not recognized by the majority of people as compared to now, so club owners were afraid people wouldn't come to their club. I think even if we DJs work hard, but as long as there's no venue to play at, then all is for nothing.
Mae plays at W Hotel every Tuesday night. Follow her on Go Grrrls, NON NON NON or her Facebook fanpage Mae Happyair to keep track of her DJ schedule.