Following a successful show in Brussels and a new mix, we got to chat with the rising DJ Olivia Vangu to learn more about her background and artistry.

– Can you tell us about your journey into DJing and how you discovered your passion for music ?
 
“Before becoming a DJ, I been deep into fashion, beauty & hosting my own radio ” The Vangu Show” on Spotify. The thing is I always loved music & dance, it fulfilled my whole childhood. My culture is what inspired me most to express my creativity in many forms and pushing my ideas !”
 
– Your genre “AFROCONGO” is a unique blend of cultural influences. How did you come up with this concept, and what inspired you to create it ?
 
“Exactly ! To be honest, this genre already existed way before me in the the first place. When you mention ” AFROCONGO” it also includes : Rumba, Soukouss, Rap, Ndombolo or Seben.. Lots of singers like Fally, Gaz Mawete, Ferre Gola, Fabregas, ID Pizzle, Innoss’B, or Rebo Tchulo showcase it globally perfectly !
 
Often played by men DJ’s, I wanted to bring it into the same environment but as a female, a performer & entertain it worldwide.”
 
– As the first female DJ to be part of the Melting Crew Awards lineup, how does it feel to break barriers in the industry ?
 
“Fortunately, the music industry really changed and still do nowadays. I would want this opportunity to inspire & give strength to everyone maybe afraid of ” being different”.
 
Standing on your own lane makes your uniqueness & builds your entire career. It works as well in anything you would go for ( cooking, studies, sport.. )”
 

– You just had a show in Brussels, how did it go ? What do you like about performing in front of an audience ?

“It was my first and biggest set since I started my career. The club was sold out and both floors were full. I was so scareddd omg haha.

Then, when I realized the amount of people present, I told myself : « LET’S F*CKIN’ GOOO ! » and I instantly felt the boost. My character took over it & people had fun. I’m happy.

What I like most about performing it’s like I fly to another planet. Energy get all over my body and seeing the crowd enjoy allows me going further into my thing. It’s a satisfaction & kinda flows naturally, I love it !”

 

– What challenges have you faced as a young artist breaking into the music scene, and how have you overcome them?

“The cheat-code is to avoid seeing it as ” challenges”.. It’s like taking it as a game. My personality makes my shield and helps me through low moments or adrenaline ones, like my last show for example.

I’m well surrounded, growing and keep learning. Excited to see where it’s going to bring me in the future :)”