Interview with DJ Tony Y Not
After a well-deserved break, DJ Tony Y Not broke her hiatus. The first stop to bring back the captivating dreaminess of her sets was House of Yes on September 21. I asked DJ Tony Y Not some questions about her life as a performer, as well as an advocate.
What is it about the DJ atmosphere that drew you to pursue it and become DJ Tony Y Not?
“Early on, when I began going to clubs and festivals, I was captivated by the incredible feeling of community that forms on the dance floor. There’s something truly liberating about being in a space where everyone is welcome, no matter where they come from, what they do, or how they look. In those moments, people connect on such an honest level, letting the music take over and uniting in a way that goes beyond words.
Music has always helped me understand and process my emotions, so being able to experience that in a community setting was like finding a deeper purpose. What’s beautiful about DJing is the responsibility you take on—you’re not just playing songs; you’re guiding a shared journey and helping people find a release or connection they might not get elsewhere.
It’s humbling to be the person behind that experience. Every set has its own story, shaped by the crowd, the energy, and the music itself. For me, it’s not just about entertaining; it’s about tapping into something raw and real. I’m passionate about the music, the stories that unfold, and the community that it brings together. That’s what keeps me coming back to it.”
Being from Switzerland and performing in both Europe and America, how would you say the club scenes differ, and how are they alike?
“Growing up in Switzerland, I was exposed to electronic music from a young age—it’s just part of the culture. You hear it on the radio, and people start going to clubs much earlier than in the U.S. That foundation gives European audiences a certain depth and appreciation, especially in smaller towns, where the local music scene is usually community-driven and supports long standing venues that have become cultural landmarks. There’s a sense of respect for the history and evolution of electronic music, and that translates into the kind of events people seek out and the vibe of the spaces they fill. In the U.S., the club scene is often more about scale, with a strong focus on big-name acts and larger venues.
But what’s interesting is how this is shifting. New York, for example, has a thriving underground scene now, with smaller venues that feel more intimate and personal. Post-pandemic, New York and Berlin seem to have swapped roles in some ways.
Berlin, which was once the epitome of underground electronic music, is seeing a shift with club culture dying a bit, influenced by factors like real estate, club closures, and the changing preferences of younger audiences. Meanwhile, New York’s smaller venues are seeing a resurgence, attracting a thirsty crowd that’s genuinely there for the music. Watching these dynamics unfold is exciting, and I’m curious to see how this transformation spreads to other U.S. cities over time.”
As a woman in this career, do you feel respected and accepted the same as your male DJ peers?
On the surface, I do feel respected. The industry is generally welcoming, and most people are supportive. But once you dig a little deeper, there are unspoken biases and challenges that become evident. Line-ups are still curated in ways that can feel tokenizing. And I’ve experienced firsthand what it’s like to be booked because they needed a “female DJ”. It’s frustrating because I, like any artist, want to be there for my craft, not to check a box.
I’ve also noticed disparities in how I’m treated or questioned. Things like whether I produce my own music or the attention people pay to my appearance—these are things male DJs rarely, if ever, face. It’s disappointing because it takes away from the focus on the art and the music. Despite these challenges, I’m encouraged by the positive changes happening in the industry. There’s a growing emphasis on authenticity and inclusivity, and I’m hopeful that over time, these conversations will shift the focus purely to the music. It’s a journey, but I believe we’re moving in the right direction.”
I understand you’re a bit of a journalist yourself, interviewing DJs and artists about their mental health. Do you think it’s prioritized enough in the industry?
“I wouldn’t call myself a journalist, but I am deeply passionate about exploring topics that matter. Mental health, physical health, addiction, social media—these are all issues that affect so many people, but especially those in the nightlife and music industry. The industry is high-energy, constantly on the move, and it can be tough for people to prioritize their well-being. I’ve seen too many talented artists burn out because they felt they had to keep up with the non-stop pace. The good news is that awareness is growing. More people are talking openly about mental health, and there’s more support for initiatives that advocate for healthier practices. It’s encouraging, but we still have a long way to go. I’m passionate about doing my part to bring these conversations to light. I think we all have a role in creating a more supportive environment.”
Why did you start interviewing artists about their mental health, and why is it important to you?
“I’ve faced my own battles with mental and physical health, and I know how isolating it can feel to think you’re the only one going through it. There’s this incredible relief and validation that comes when you connect with others who understand. Community and connection are essential to healing, and I genuinely believe the world needs more of that. I also have a natural curiosity about people’s stories and what drives them. So diving into these conversations felt like a way to combine my passions for connection and storytelling. Being able to talk openly about mental health, especially in the music world, feels powerful because it creates space for people to feel seen. I hope these conversations can help others who may be struggling, even if it’s just knowing they’re not alone.”
Why is House of Yes such an important part of DJ Tony Y Not’s career, and how did it feel to play there after a break?
“House of Yes has been a significant part of my journey since I moved to New York. The first time I set foot in the space even before it was in the current location, it was this wild, creative hub, filled with some of the most talented and passionate artists I’d ever met. It wasn’t just a club—it was a community. A space where people came to express themselves, support each other, and collaborate. I felt welcomed to the family from the start. And it was a huge inspiration for me as I started to DJ myself.
Playing there now always brings me back to those early days, reminding me of how far I’ve come and what inspired me to pursue this path in the first place. There’s a special energy at House of Yes, one that’s both nostalgic and forward-looking. Every time I play there, I feel a mix of gratitude and excitement, and I hope that, in some small way, I can pass on the inspiration I felt to others in the crowd like it did to me.”