qPDX.com – Queer news, views and events for Portland

DJ Rhienna

qPDX is starting a new feature! Every week we will introduce you to a local LGBTQ party DJ and ask them about their experiences in the scene and feature an audio mix they’ve made. If you’re interested in being featured contact alley@qpdx.com.

Rhienna has been a a go-to DJ for events for SMYRC, the bike community, and the Portland Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence. She currently has residencies at Yes/No and guest spots at the Fez, TIGA, and Red Cap Garage. You can catch her twice this weekend, on Thursday at VITUS at the Yes/No, an electro/nudisco/post-punk/new wave night and Friday at the Fez for their weekly decadent 80s night. And Saturday October 8th she’ll be making a very special appearance at Glam Rock night at the Lovecraft (Portland’s only horror-themed bar 421 SE Grand).

When and how did you get started DJing?

i think, like most DJs, i became interested in DJing after years of loving music, making mixtapes and enjoying the experience of sort of…curating a musical experience based on a theme or emotion or message. mixtapes became mix CDs which became hypothetical setlists. all it really takes after that point is someone to show you how to operate DJ equipment (most of which is pretty intuitive) and beatmatch, and you’re hooked. at least i was. once i learned how to use turntables, a mixer, CD-Js (back in the day), all i wanted to do is practice, and play music for people out and about. my first gig in portland was not long after moving here, in late 2007.

Continue reading »