Rising Stars: Meet Shay Sova of Phoenix

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shay Sova.

Hi Shay, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

I guess you could say DJ’ing is in my blood. My dad used to spin at the Playboy Club, so I grew up surrounded by crates of vinyl, flashing lights, and stories that made nightlife feel like magic. Music was always playing in our house, and eventually, I stopped just listening and started wondering, how do I do that?

When I decided to take it seriously, I hit a wall pretty fast. I was told the scene was too saturated, and honestly, being a woman didn’t make things easier. A lot of people I approached for help either brushed me off or didn’t take me seriously. But I kept pushing, and eventually found someone who saw my potential and agreed to teach me. That was the turning point.

I learned on vinyl first (respect to the old school), then graduated to CDJs. I took every gig I could find—no matter how small or chaotic—and treated every one of them like it was a festival stage. It paid off: I’ve since opened for some of my favorite artists and I am building a name that people are starting to recognize.

But for me, music is also about purpose. I co-founded a nonprofit that throws EDM events to raise money for causes like overdose prevention, mental health support, and saving women and children from human trafficking. It’s about using music as a platform—not just to party, but to make a difference.

I’ve come a long way, but I know I still have a long way to go. I’m just getting started. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: passion will get you through the noise. The rest? That’s where the fun begins.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?

Smooth? Not even close.

One of my biggest struggles has been being taken seriously as a female DJ. It didn’t matter how passionate or prepared I was—what mattered, too often, was who I knew. In this industry, “networking” is sometimes just code for gatekeeping. And even when you have the talent, it can feel like you’re constantly trying to prove you belong in a space that wasn’t built with you in mind.

But the hardest part hasn’t just been professional—it’s been personal. Early in my career, I had a “manager” who tried to sexually assault me. He used the promise of opportunity as leverage, and when I didn’t comply, he disappeared—until I later found out he had been arrested for human trafficking. This I will go into detail about one day, but not now.

That experience shook me, but it also lit a fire in me. He literally said “if you don’t sleep with me, and have me help you you will get nowhere”. I just remember thinking, “Watch me prove you wrong”. It made me realize that if I was going to do this, it had to be on my terms, in my power, and with people I truly trust.

These aren’t things we talk about often, but they’re real. And for every setback, I’ve only become more resilient, more intentional, and more committed to carving out a safer, more inclusive space—not just for myself, but for others coming up behind me.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?

I’m a DJ/Producer who specializes in techno and trance, and I’m all about creating unforgettable moments on the dance floor. I’m known for my ability to build a vibe that’s both high-energy and deeply emotional—moving crowds not just with the music, but with the energy behind it.

What I’m most proud of is that I’ve never compromised on being myself. In an industry that often pushes people to fit a certain image, I stay true to who I am—and I think people can feel that when I play or on my social media platforms. Making people genuinely happy through music is what drives me. There’s no better feeling than seeing a room full of strangers let go, connect, and just exist in the moment together.

What sets me apart is that authenticity. I’m not chasing trends or trying to be anyone else. I’m just doing what I love, in the way that feels right to me—and I think audiences respond to that.

Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
1. Keep pushing forward, no matter what. Even if you need to step back and catch your breath, even if you break down, even if everything feels impossible — you don’t quit on what you love. Rest if you need to, but don’t you dare stop.
2. Doors open for the bold. Playing it safe won’t get you where you want to go. You have to bet on yourself, even when it feels reckless. Confidence moves mountains. Fear keeps you standing still.
3. Leap — and the net will appear. You’ll never feel fully ready. You’ll never have all the answers. But if you take the jump, trust yourself, and stay hungry, life has a way of catching you. You just have to jump.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaysova/profilecard/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShaySovaOfficial
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@shaysovaofficial
• Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/cpY5b5TUCZRgrXMk9

Image Credits
Studio photos by audiovisual cult
@audiovisualcult

https://www.instagram.com/audiovisualcult?igsh=MTZ2bzMycmF6MndlaA==

Makeup and hair by Celine @celine_thedream

https://www.instagram.com/celine_thedream?igsh=MWswZ2F5cndyODM2Yg==