The Tiger Lily is thought to be the most beautiful flower in existence. Known for its fiery colors and complex structure, it’s a fitting alter ego for one of Australia’s most in-demand DJs and producers.
Tigerlily, the music artist, could be the virtual creation of some Weird Science remake set in the world of EDM with two nerdy bedroom producers conjuring up their dream female DJ. The blue-haired beauty seems to have it all: looks, charm, talent, a big heart – and over 600K followers on Instagram.
Also: Giveaway | Win 2 Tickets to See Tigerlily in Los Angeles This Friday
Now, Tigerlily is stateside in the middle of a North American tour (see dates below). I had a chance to chat with her about why the land down under is so hot right now, her new single and why she’s running the New York Marathon.
Crave: There is so much good music coming out of Australia right now. Why do you think that is? And, where does DJ Tigerlily fit into it all?
Tigerlily: In Australia we have an unfortunate case of tall poppy syndrome so I wouldn’t suggest that it was because of a supportive music community. It’s magical the amount of beautiful music and creative Australians making a name for themselves on a global scale. Well, I’m no SIA that’s for sure, but I’m happy to be doing my part, playing shows and releasing music all around the world.
I love breaking-in stories. Tell us about your first DJ performance?
My first DJ show was at a pub in Sydney, Australia called the Coogee Pavilion. I played songs like “You and I” by Medina (Deadmau5 Remix) and “Take Over Control” by Afrojack. I definitely stopped the music three times from nerves, but they asked for me back. So it can’t have been that bad, right? These days, when I go home, I love going for a cheeky Sunday afternooon drink or two at the Coogee Pav and reminisce.
Dance music gets a bad rap for not being “performance-driven.” How do you defy that “all a DJ does is push buttons” stereotype.
I think these days the bad rap about pushing buttons is quickly fading. Most people that follow dance music know how hard DJs work to curate perfect shows and performances. I think the online trolls are the people giving us a bad rap, and let’s be honest, they give everyone a bad rap and totally suck! Due to so many great performers incorporating live elements in their shows and getting creative with what they’re doing, DJs definitely have a new found level of respect in the commercial scene. I really try to bring a new energy to the stage every time I perform. If I am smiling and having fun and putting my all into my show, the audience really appreciates that and it enhances the connection that you have with them.
You change your hair color a lot. What color is it now? Is there meaning behind the colors you choose or do you just like the way it looks?
It’s been aqua for over 2 years, but before that it was a whole array of colors: pink, purple, red, green etc. The reason why it’s blue is because my mum says that this color suits my complexion nicely (and mums are always right haha). I’m wanting to go back to my natural color soon, but I’m not sure how that will go. It seems people are very connected to and opinionated about my blue hair.
If your song with KSHMR “Invisible Children” was a color which one would it be?
A deep orange, like the setting sun.
You’re running the New York Marathon to raise money for Lifeline (an Australian suicide prevention and mental health organization). I love how you were so candid about battling with mental health issues.
I believe that being open about it is really important if we as a society are going to change the stigma around the issue. If people see me opening up about mental health issues, then maybe they will have the courage to open up, too. These days, one conversation can change a life and I encourage anyone to speak up if they are struggling.
[If you want to donate to Tigerlily’s Lifeline go here.]
Also, I’m sure touring, performing, etc can be a lot of stress. How are you dealing with it all?
I’m ok. The past two months in Europe were really difficult, I won’t lie. I almost booked a flight home many times. But now that I’m in the USA and have my tour manager back with me things are looking up. I am really lucky I have a very strong support network in my friends and family, and they are incredible through tough times when I’m on tour. I encourage everyone to build a support network around them that they can reach out to when they’re feeling low.
How are you training for the marathon?
I’m trying to run whenever I can to train for the marathon but it’s very difficult. I’m jet lagged and tired a lot – for example I had five shows in five cities last week. So it’s not ideal, but I’m not running it to get a killer time. I’m running it to finish the race and raise awareness, so as much as I’m nervous, I’m also very excited!
North American Tour
9/22: The Yost Theater – Santa Ana, CA
9/23: Create Nightclub – Hollywood, CA
9/24: Hakkasan, MGM Grand – Las Vegas, NV
10/7: Maya Beach Club – Scottsdale, AZ
10/8: Foundation Nightclub – Seattle, WA
10/9: 414 Main – Winnipeg, Canada
