Before hitting Siloso Beach hard with house music, this local lass elaborates on girl power, dream gigs and returning to spin at one of the biggest festivals in Singapore
Our frolicsome fandom towards ZoukOut is no big secret – case in point, our ultimate ZoukOut 2015 survival guide that we reckon many of y’all have studied like your favourite EDM banger. There is, however, one pet peeve that continues to vex us despite the global renaissance of dance music culture: Where ’em ladies in the house? Aside from the return of EDM vixens, Nervo, Zouk’s music festival exhibits a male-dominated line-up. So naturally, we sat upright when we caught wind of more girl power on the star-studded roster – let alone, girl power from Singapura herself. Adopting the alias, CATS ON CRACK, Eileen Chan is one scene fixture who spews out house-natured tunes, having opened for the likes of The Field, Todd Edwards, Cassy and Scarlett Etienne at clubs all over the isle. Put your paws out, and start waving at this feisty feline – this is one cool cat that’s going places.
On stumbling into the craft…
I never planned on becoming a DJ; it all just kind of happened! Music has always been a huge part of my life. So a few years ago, I decided to sign up for the FFF Girl DJ Bootcamp on a whim, and I guess you can say the rest is history.
On her heroes…local and beyond…
My heroes include some of Singapore’s finest, such as Aldrin, DJ KFC, Mr. Has, Debbie Chia, and EJ Missy. I am also greatly inspired by some of the international female DJs out there, such as tINI, Bella Sarris, Laura Jones, Nakadia, Nina Kraviz, ANNA, and B.Traits.
On gender segregation in the local dance scene…
The music industry has been – and remains to be – male-dominated. So any time we get female DJs, it can only be a good thing. I don’t think we need more schools specifically to groom female DJs (like the now-defunct FFF Girl DJ Bootcamp), but I think the scene could do with more support from the local punters – for Singaporean DJs and musicians as a whole.
On hushing the haters…
Yeah, there’re always sceptics when you’re starting out in any of the arts. I have met my fair share of naysayers and negativity, and I think one of the biggest challenges is learning to look past that and keep moving forward. I hadn’t planned on becoming a DJ, so all of the opportunities I have been granted thus far have truly been a privilege.
On local dancefloor culture…
Singapore’s always been such a melting pot of diverse cultures. I feel like everyone’s always there to have a good time. That’s the whole deal about music, right? It brings people together. Also, respect the people around you. And don’t ask me to play any more Taylor Swift.
On dabbling into different genres during sets…
Diversity comes from the different types of gigs I play, whether it’s a club gig, a street party, or even an outdoor party. Different vibes for different tribes – that’s key. As for genres, I’ve recently been intrigued by ethereal techno.
On returning to the ZoukOut decks…
I’m very excited! ZoukOut has a special place in my heart and I can’t wait to get back out there and immerse myself in the energy that the crowd gives. It’s also an annual affair where I get to dance ’til my feet are sore and my back aches, with many of my nearest and dearest friends.
On her dream stage…
Panorama Bar in Berlin. Without a doubt.
On the sinister nature of cats…
I don’t think they’re the most sinister of creatures, more like the cuddliest type of evil you’ll find in the Universe.
On the type of feline she associates herself the most…
A Pusheen.
ZoukOut 2015; December 11-12; Siloso Beach, 51 Imbiah Walk, Sentosa Island, Singapore 099538. For more information on tickets, visit the event’s website.
CATS ON CRACK performs on Day 1 of ZoukOut 2015. To pounce on more of her mixes, visit her Mixcloud or Soundcloud page.
To hear more of our fave local, made-in-Singapore acts, have a listen to our So Singaporean playlist on our Honeycombers Spotify Profile. New playlist each week!