#WomenInMusicAfrica: DJ Pierra Makena On Being Named Among Top 150 Female DJs Worldwide and Reveals Why She Went From the Decks to the Mic

DJ Pierra Makena is one of the most notable female personalities in the Kenyan music scene, not just because of her evident beauty, but also because of her amazing skills on the decks and the fact she’s one of the few women to make it in a world dominated by men.

I recently got a chance for an exclusive interview with this amazing woman, where she revealed why she went into this male dominated world, how it felt to be named among the top female DJs worldwide and why she started singing.

Also as a matter of public interest, we could not help but delve a little into her love life and some of the artists she rates as her favorite in Kenya right now.

Check out what she told us;

Tell us about your journey in music so far.

Well my journey in music has not been easy, because i am doing something that has not been done before. I’m a DJ who has ventured into music. Initially it was not easy but currently people have started to understand that am not a musician but a DJ who is into production.

What inspired you to start DJing?

I found passion in music, and how they sounded when it is back to back so I taught myself to DJ and am glad I did.

How has it been being one of the first women to start DJing in Kenya?

In this industry is not easy, since it’s a male dominated industry and people will always compare you to the males. I had to work extra harder to be good enough, and prove myself that am good and not just a pretty face.

Did you feel intimidated by your male counterparts?

No, I have always been a bold woman and that has got me standing and surviving. Some have tried intimidating me but it’s never worked.

Did they (male DJs) and the industry receive you well?

Well I can never tell but to make it clear i never felt rejected.

In the early days of your career was there a time you regretted your choice to become a DJ? What did your parents and loved ones feel about your decision?

No, I don't think I ever got to that point, because am a very positive person. My family has always been very supportive, in other words they been my strength.

How would you describe the music industry in Kenya?

The industry is growing but we not yet there where we should be.

What is your career highlight so far?

Being recognized worldwide as a female dj.

You were recently chosen to be among the Top 150 DJ Janes worldwide, how did that make you feel?

It’s a great feeling having being recognized worldwide that gives me the assurance that my hard work and dedication actually pays and for that am grateful  and the most amazing thing is am recognized worldwide and not as much in my country.

What are your favorite songs to mix?

I don't have a favorite, because to me music has its own language and i love it.

Who are your top 5 artists in Kenya right now?

Top 5 artist wow that’s a hard one, i don't think i have any because every day there is new music coming out.

You have a single (WAPE) and you featured on a song with Nonini, what inspired you to start singing? What did you hope to achieve? Do you plan to drop more music in future?

Yes I do. WAPE was a strategy by my team to stir controversy, if you listen to WAPE and WANAJISHUKU its one song. I was inspired by critics to take that direction hence forth.

What is your advice to other women looking to join the industry either as DJs or musicians or producers?

The industry is not easy but you must be willing to stand and fight for your dreams and count challenges as you biggest achievements because they mould you to be better.

Are you in a relationship?

No, am not, and am not searching..

Last remarks.

Find yourself be sure to love who and what you are, in any field be the best you can believe that everything will fall into place and always put God first.