Riot Collective

There are no coincidences in the world of electronic music and here’s why; Three visionary women - Carmen Lisa, MYRA, and Selene - found not only a shared passion but also a profound connection that would ignite a movement within the industry. Their journey together began in 2019 when Carmen Lisa and Selene crossed paths, instantly recognizing kindred spirits in each other. United by their love for techno beats and a desire to challenge the status quo, they began spinning records together at local clubs and events, giving birth to what would become known as RIOT.

As they delved deeper into their collaboration, Carmen Lisa and Selene encountered MYRA, whose presence soon became integral to RIOT’s essence. What started as musical synergy blossomed into a deep friendship, fueled by a shared belief in the power of women to shape and enrich the electronic music scene. It was this shared vision that propelled them forward.

In a landscape where female DJs and producers remain underrepresented, RIOT emerged as a beacon of change. Fueled by their determination to bring more balance to the industry, the trio embarked on a mission to create a platform that not only provided opportunities for women but also fostered unity and collaboration. Thus, RIOT was born—an artist collective dedicated to connecting and inspiring women within the electronic music scene.

RIOT’s ethos extends beyond music, encompassing a wide array of talents within the cultural sector. Through curated gatherings and events featuring all-female lineups, they not only showcase the talent of female DJs, but also seek to elevate performers, VJs, graphic designers, and photographers. Their mission is clear: to curate a space where female artists can share their passion, support one another, and cultivate meaningful collaborations.

The members were driven by several factors, each contributing to the collective’s overarching mission. Firstly, they were inspired by the immense potential and creativity of female artists that often went unnoticed due to systemic biases and barriers within the industry. They saw firsthand the untapped talent waiting to be discovered and nurtured.

In an industry often characterized by exclusivity and inaccessibility, it’s refreshing to encounter individuals who are committed to breaking down barriers and paving the way for the next generation of talent. As they embark on their journey as artists, they are not only proud of their own accomplishments, but also deeply inspired by the strides their peers are making.

In their pursuit of success, they recognize the importance of staying connected with emerging female artists. Too often, established figures in the industry become distant and unapproachable, leaving aspiring talents feeling isolated and discouraged. They refuse to adhere to this norm. Instead, they are determined to foster a community where support and encouragement are readily available.

They firmly believe that by lifting each other up, they can create a more inclusive and empowering environment for all. Their achievements serve as a testament to what can be accomplished when women come together to uplift and empower one another. As they continue to grow and evolve in their careers, they are committed to serving as accessible and relatable role models for aspiring artists. They want them to know that success is attainable, and that they are not alone on their journey.

Through mentorship, collaboration, and unwavering support, they aim to break down the barriers that have long hindered the progress of female artists. Together, they can redefine what it means to be a role model in the music industry, ensuring that future generations have the resources and support they need to thrive.

Despite the obstacles posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, RIOT remained steadfast in its commitment to the cause. The collective adapted by hosting numerous radio shows, maintaining connections within the industry even during times of physical distancing. Additionally, RIOT contributed to the UnMute Us demonstration, lending their support to the movement advocating for the return of live events.

With the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, RIOT seized the opportunity to resume stage hostings at festivals and organize its own events, amplifying its impact and empowering female talent in electronic music. One particularly notable moment was the collective’s participation in the (formerly known as the Love Pa- rade) in Berlin, where they performed on a truck for almost half a million people. This experience felt like a revolution after a prolonged period of silence, marking a significant milestone for the collective.

In 2023, RIOT embarked on a groundbreaking tour through China, leaving a trail of exhilaration and newfound appreciation for techno music in its wake. Supported by the Night Mayor of Groningen, the collective brought their vision and strength to cities where the genre was yet to fully flourish, including Shanghai, Nantong, and Wuzhen.

Throughout the tour, RIOT forged bonds with new fans, uniting people across borders and cultures through their shared love for music. This experience reinforced the collective’s belief in the power of music to transcend boundaries and challenge perceptions.

“Our approach to collaborating with female talent is rooted in recognizing their unique contributions and providing them with opportunities for growth,” says the collective.

In an industry where roles beyond the stage are often underestimated and understaffed, RIOT prioritizes giving talented women behind the scenes a chance too. By offering platforms for collaboration and advancement, RIOT aims to amplify their voices and expertise, enriching events and fostering a more inclusive community overall.

Driven by their own experiences as artists, the members of RIOT utilize their extensive network to find and collaborate with women in these different fields. Regular brainstorming sessions with other artists help to involve them in the process, expanding the network to reach more female talent and ensuring a diverse range of voices are represented.

RIOT’s impact on the electronic music scene, nationally and abroad, is tangible and profound. Through their events, female artists feel empowered, valued, and given the chance to learn and experiment freely without judgment. The collective has received glowing feedback from women expressing gratitude for the opportunities RIOT provides.

The real success stories, as RIOT describes, can range from giving female artists a stage for the first time, boosting their confidence in their skills, to contributing to achieving their dreams of making a living from their art. Every accomplishment, big or small, is a testament to RIOT’s commitment to empowering women in electronic music.

“Our approach to collaborating with these women is rooted in recognizing their unique contributions and providing them with opportunities for growth,” says the collective.

In an industry where roles beyond the stage are often underestimated and understaffed, RIOT prioritizes giving talented women behind the scenes a chance too. By offering platforms for collaboration and advancement, RIOT aims to amplify their voices and expertise, enriching events and fostering a more inclusive community overall.

As RIOT Collective looks ahead to the future, the founders are filled with excitement and determination.With a clear vision and ambitious goals, they are poised to make a lasting impact on the electronic music scene, both locally and beyond.

“In 2024, we want to continue with doing stage hostings, but we will also focus more on organizing our own events,” says the collective. “We plan to hold showcases and network events where we provide a space for all different kinds of talents. Additionally, we will be organizing DJ and producer workshops, press shoot days, and maintaining our monthly radio shows and radio day takeovers.”

One of the collective’s upcoming events is on the 8th of March, International Women’s Day, where they have been invited by ‘Op het Schoolplein’ to host a stage at Pip in The Hague. Twenty-four female artists will share the decks and play b2b sessions, featuring a variety of sounds from break beat, techno, and trance. From established names to artists making their club debuts, the event promises to be a celebration of talent and diversity.

But RIOT’s aspirations extend beyond events and stage hosting. Their ultimate goal is to start an agency under the umbrella of RIOT, where they can directly promote and help female artists grow and achieve their goals. To move closer to this objective, they have decided to become a foundation, enabling them to collect resources and financial aid to create mentorship programs and expand their platform.

For each founder, RIOT Collective has been more than just a platform—it’s been a transformative journey that has shaped their careers and their identities as artists and creators.

Carmen Lisa, hailing from the northern part of the Netherlands, has seen her career soar since joining GEM records bookings agency as their first female artist. Her authentic sound, described as “techno with a soul,” has taken her to festivals and events around the world, Tomorrowland, Loveland and Awakenings, spreading femininity within the techno sound abroad.

MYRA is a DJ and Producer living in Eindhoven that favors hypnotic yet powerful techno, where she explores the deep and trippy side of the genre, guiding listeners to profound inner space. Her journey began at the Electronic Music Academy at the Conservatory of Amsterdam, where she honed her musical and creative capacities. At the Conservatory she discovered her fascination for analogue gear that she now uses intensively as a producer. After graduation she had within no time some impressive gigs on her resumé like Awakenings and Intercell, paving way for a dream future.

Selene is a Groningen based DJ with a love for the raw, up-tempo & hypnotic side of techno. Her sound is characterized as powerful & trippy with a lot of groovy rhythms and vocals to create an overall vivacious feeling. She tries to build a musical journey through extemporizing and sensing the moment on the dance floor.

Past years she performed at different established events like Tresor in Berlin, Awakenings at De Gashouder Amsterdam and Tempio del Futuro Perduto in Milan.

RIOT’s belief in the transformative power of music and community. Through the music and their vision, they seek to inspire others to embrace change, embrace diversity, and embrace the endless possibilities of the electronic music landscape. Together, they pave the way for a brighter and more inclusive future for electronic music—one beat at a time.

As they look to the future, the founders of RIOT Collective are filled with optimism and determination. With their eyes set on empowering female talent and reshaping the electronic music scene, they are ready to embark on the next chapter of their journey, together as a collective united by a shared vision and passion for music.

In 2024, the trio will be playing at Mysteryland festival. Besides this highlight, you can find Carmen Lisa at Awakenings summer festival, 909 festival and Elrow festival. MYRA at Awakenings summer festival, 909 festival and OSTRA club in France. Selene you can find at Mystic Garden, Loveland and Paradigm. Among these exciting shows there are many more on their agenda.

“Join us as we pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for female artists everywhere. Together, we can make a difference” – Carmen Lisa, MYRA & Selene.

CREDITS

Interview : Natalia Sanchinelli

Editor: Sergio Niño

Photography: Lucas de Voogd

Design: Dante Salas