Interview Editing Moggi Mannix 

In an era where technology and social media have radically changed the landscape of DJing, Dublin-based vinyl purist Laynee stands as a rare breed.

With over 26 years in the game, Laynee has seen played and accepted the rise of the digital age, but remains deeply committed to the art of mixing vinyl. Her recent viral moment—where a live-streamed set amassed over half a million views—has only further solidified her position as a real-deal DJ, praised for her authenticity in an industry often criticized for its spectacle over substance.

In this exclusive interview with Mike Mannix, Laynee reflects on the sudden wave of attention, her thoughts on the commercialization of the electronic music scene, and how COVID-19 knocked her confidence before she found her groove again.

A true veteran of the Dublin scene, Laynee speaks candidly about the challenges of navigating a changing industry while staying grounded in her passion for music, authenticity, and the craft of DJing.

 

The Viral Vinyl Set: A Real DJ Moment

The conversation begins with a deep dive into Laynee’s viral moment—a vinyl set that unexpectedly racked up a half a million views over 8100 likes, hundreds of reshares and comments.

Laynee recalls how she wasn’t even aware that the set was being live-streamed, at the Music Machines Masters event [headed by REOSC] and the surprise she felt when the video went viral overnight.

“When you messaged me the next morning saying you’ve got 10,000 views… I was like, what?”

What stood out to viewers was the rawness of the performance: real vinyl mixing, visible sweat, and a few honest mistakes. In an era dominated by pre-recorded sets and DJs syncing tracks digitally, Laynee’s authenticity resonated with an audience hungry for the craft.

 “It was vinyl that we were using. People like when they can see the DJs actually working, doing something.”

The set, free from glitzy production, captured the essence of DJing, and Laynee’s down-to-earth attitude earned her fans far beyond Ireland, with messages flooding in from as far as Mexico.

---

Vinyl Craft vs. the Techno Circus

Laynee delved into the differences between today’s EDM festivals—often referred to as “techno circuses”—and the more raw, crafted DJ sets that characterized the underground scene. Laynee didn’t hold back in sharing her views on how technology has changed DJing.

“You can throw all the technology at people, but if you don’t know the music, if you can’t mix without the sync button, then what are you really doing?”

She pointed out that while digital technology has made DJing more accessible, it’s also taken away from the essence of the craft. Laynee emphasized that vinyl mixing requires years of practice and a deep connection with the music, which is something she fears is being lost in today’s instant-gratification culture.

Laynee: “That was an art you had to perfect over years… Today, everything is on demand.”

---

COVID-19 and Finding Confidence Again

The pandemic was a difficult time for Laynee, who admits she lost confidence in her abilities during the lockdowns. She also only realised during and after covid that she had ADHD.

She watched as newer DJs seemed to emerge from COVID with refined skills, while she struggled with self-doubt. The viral video, however, became a turning point, restoring her belief in her own craft.

Laynee: “After COVID, I lost loads of confidence… I was cowering in the corner going, oh no, all these next-generation DJs.”

The unexpected success of her set reignited her passion, showing her that there was still a strong appreciation for her style of DJing. This renewed confidence has carried her back into the booth, with a fresh perspective on her place in the industry.

Laynee: “It’s boosted my confidence… I’m getting my mojo back.”

---

The Changing Face of the Dublin Scene

Laynee also spoke at length about how Dublin’s electronic music scene has evolved over the years. While she acknowledges the incredible talent of many of today’s DJs, she’s frustrated by the dominance of social media followers and online presence over raw talent.

“There’s a lot of really talented DJs out there, but the promoters want instant crowds… It’s all about the likes and followers now.”

  Ultrasonic at The Button Factory July 2019

 

She also noted how the rise of female DJs has brought a new energy to the scene, praising women for their more melodic and diverse approach to mixing.

“The girls have a little bit of an edge… They play more melodic, diverse mixes.”

---

Advice for Aspiring DJs: Stay True to Your Music

For younger DJs trying to navigate today’s landscape, Laynee has one piece of key advice: stay true to your passion and the music you love.

Laynee: “Stick to the music you love. Don’t play music you think other people want to hear.”

She described her own process of building sets, starting with one track she loves and building the rest of the set around that. Laynee stressed that putting in the effort and selecting music with care is what truly makes a great DJ.

The Day of the Dead Fest Glendalough, Wicklow October 2019

Future Plans: House Music and New Directions

Looking ahead, Laynee revealed that she is leaning more toward house music, as the genre’s uplifting, happy vibes are what she’s connecting with at this stage of her career.

Laynee: “I just want to play happy music now… I’m on the housey buzz for a while.”

Though she remains open to performing techno gigs, Laynee is excited to explore new genres and directions, constantly evolving her sound to reflect where she is in life.

Whether spinning house, techno, or old-school tracks, one thing remains clear: Laynee will always stay true to her roots and her passion for DJing.

In an industry that increasingly values spectacle over skill, Laynee is a refreshing reminder of what it means to be a DJ.

Her passion for vinyl, her dedication to the craft, and her ability to stay authentic in a world of instant fame have made her a standout figure in Dublin’s music scene.

With a renewed sense of confidence and a commitment to keeping the art of DJing alive, Laynee is proof that staying true to yourself is the ultimate key to success.