Since opening its doors to the public for the first time in 2007, Woei has left its mark on the international sneaker and streetwear community with several collaborations including Asics, Patta, and Stüssy along the way.
But the interests and passions of the Woei crew reach far beyond just shoes and apparel. Besides providing the streets with the latest from Nike, Adidas, and Co., music has always been at the heart of the store. Considering the highly curated playlists and mixes that can be heard in the store and hosting some of Rotterdam's most notorious parties, the belief that music unites is deeply ingrained in the Woei DNA.
Based on this deep connection, we want to shine a spotlight on some of our favorite local musicians to talk about what sparked their passion for music and hear their take on common dilemmas in the music industry.
For WOEI FM episode #27, we caught up with Suze Ijó to talk about her busy traveling life, her preference for vinyl, and her journey into becoming the DJ that she is today.
Can you please introduce yourself?
My name is Suze. I’m 31 years old, born and raised in Rotterdam, and work as a full-time DJ.
How did you come up with your DJ name?
My DJ name is Suze Ijó, with Suze being my first name, and Ijó coming from one of Tony Allen’s songs. I used to go solely by Suze but figured out that I'd practically be unfindable that way, Suze Ijó had a nice ring to it.
What do you spin, exactly?
I spin different kinds of music, a lot inspired by a club called ‘The Loft’ in New York. It’s mostly House, with a focus on more organic sounds.
What does a typical day in your life look like?
None of my days look the same. Throughout the week I’m busy finding new music, answering emails, and keeping up with administration. I’m on the go a lot, so I enjoy coming home to cook and work out. On the weekends I’m usually on a plane to the next gig.
Where are we currently, and what does this spot mean to you?
We’re currently in my own home, the place where I prepare myself, and the place where I always return after being gone.
What does Rotterdam, as a city, mean to you?
Whenever I return from my travels, I start to appreciate the fact that I live in such a small city. There aren't so many distractions.
"I’m on the go a lot, so I enjoy coming home to cook and work out. On the weekends I’m usually on a plane to the next gig."
What are your favorite spots in Rotterdam?
- Clone Records. My go-to for vinyl, and I’ve also worked there for three years.
- La Bandera. A great Dominican restaurant on the Nieuwe Binnenweg.
- Nen Xavier + Cheap Fashion for vintage clothing.
When did you realize music would be a big part of your life, and how did you become a DJ?
When I was still a student, I always had music-related jobs, like handing out flyers for different events. Then I started getting into production, where I did many different things, and that gradually transitioned into where we are now.
Continuing off of that, when did you decide to be a DJ?
I never consciously decided to become a DJ. I was always busy with music anyways, either spinning and/or collecting records. I wanted to get deeper into it, and that’s how all this came to be.
What was your first performance? And how was it?
It was at BAR. I was very nervous, so I had the entire set already prepared from start to finish. In the end, it practically became a Larry Heard tribute.
Digital or Vinyl?
Preferably vinyl, but there have been and will be occasions where the setup won’t allow it. If you end up playing something with vinyl and it doesn't sound right, you are the one who will receive the odd looks. So in that case, I try to get over it and switch to Digital.
How do you select your music for upcoming gigs/mixes?
I always have a base of music to which I add new songs or older songs that I haven’t used in a while. That way I don’t always end up playing the same stuff. I also like to sort it into different kinds of vibes that the music gives off.
A plus point of spinning hybrid now is that I can always switch it up per location, without having too many restrictions.
Do you have certain routines you follow before spinning that you’ve taught yourself?
Aside from always carrying incense with me, there’s not much of a routine I follow beforehand.
Club nights or Festivals?
Club Nights.
Is there a place/spot where you’d like to spin again?
In general, I’ve already played at all the spots that I really want to, but I’d love to play in New York again. I’ve never played on Ibiza before, so that would also be really cool.
Do you have a favorite song you’d like to share with the audience?
Leon Ware - Rockin' You Eternally
"A plus point of spinning hybrid now is that I can always switch it up per location, without having too many restrictions."
Opening or Closing set?
Both. Preferably I’m the one that fills up the whole night.
Is there something on your planning you want/can share?
There is a lot on the planning. On April 15th I’m at Panorama Bar again, and on Easter, I’m spinning at DGTL.
What can we expect from your set at Operator?
Because it’s a radio set, I’ll play some tunes that I also like to listen to at home. I’m not focusing on club music this time.
Any last words?
Thanks for the invite!
