Local DJ Kitty Gatling talks university, ‘90s jams and the imbalance of the sexes in the industry.
“I get really cranky when people come up to me and say 'how lovely, you're a chick',” admits The Gatling Gun aka Kitty.
The Brisbanite started DJing so she could play her favourite music while making people dance.
“I was just tagging along with my friends. I decided that I really appreciate it. People were hesitant to play ‘90s music, hesitant to play real cheesy bangers. I was like ‘well look, I'm going to fill the gap’ and it's worked out really well for me.”
Often asked if she's attending a ‘90s dress-up party when she goes out, Kitty thinks the era, often ridiculed, is an untapped music resource.
“TLC's 'Waterfall', that's a good song. It's actually my jam. Until everyone appreciates it, I'm going to keep playing it.”
In a male orientated industry, Kitty isn't afraid to break the 'sexy female DJ' mould.
“I'm trying my best by being weird looking. I really wish there were more girls out. It's a lot of pressure to be like Havanna Brown and have long wavy hair.
“There's a total imbalance between the sexes,” she continues. “I think we need to smash it down. Brisbane needs more of a mix and not just a douchebag guy with a backwards hat.”
Kitty has only been DJing a few months, but has already had the opportunity to play at this year's Splendour In The Grass.
“I got back to uni and said to everyone, 'you don't understand what's happened to me'. I'd just seen so much. I had this sense of like 'look at me I'm really special'. I went to uni and everyone was like, 'we don't really care'.”
As an emerging artist, Kitty is looking forward to performing at the youth-only 2high festival.
“When you think about all of the great musicians you know, they've all had a leg up. It's really important to take it a step back and have a look at the people around you and see what they can bring to the local art culture.”
The Gatling Gun performs at 2high at the Bris Powerhouse Nov 2. She also provides the soundtrack at 2high pre-event at The Rabbithole Ideation Cafe Oct 12.
