Many DJs frequent the island of Ibiza during the summer months.
It’s a bolthole for aspiring artists. And a place that so many people eventually decide to lay down roots, with a vision of staying for the long term.
One of those people who decided to build her future and career on the white isle, is none other than DJ Vicky Devine.
A long-standing resident in both lifestyle, and behind the decks.
Having played at some of the biggest and best clubs here, spanning over two decades, we chat to Vicky about all things music and of course, Ibiza.
Vicky Devine
Q: Hi Vicky! So, when did you first start mixing?
A: I started in the late 90s when I was at university, and I used to go to my mates house after classes to practice. I eventually bought my own decks in 2000, after borrowing a set from a friend the year before.
Q: What made you decide that you wanted to be a DJ?
A: I started going to raves around the same time that I was at uni. I just loved the music so much. There was a club near my home town that I used to go to religiously, as well as all the free parties and festivals I could find. I was totally addicted to the music from the word go.
I naturally met lots of DJs along the way, and I used to work doing different jobs in the scene. Everyone I met would tell me that I should give it a go. Mainly because I was always asking them how to start, what to do and where to get the tunes etc.
And so I started.
Q: Tell us about your first summer playing on the island.
A: I started playing on Ibiza in 2001, as one of the “Charlys Angelz“. It was an all-female event that I also promoted with Sophie Sugar, and that was my introduction to the island. I was really lucky to be given that opportunity, and to be supported in such a way from the get-go. The first time I played I was terrified. I went on the decks at club Summum in San Antonio Bay and in hindsight, I wasn’t experienced enough. But I embraced it like it was something I did every day, and the rest as they say is history!
That summer was amazing for me for so many reasons. Mostly because it allowed me a foot in the door, and to eventually progress onto other things. Such as making a life for myself here on the island.
Q: What made you decide to set up a permanent home here on Ibiza?
A: For the first 12 years I went backwards and forwards, doing the summer season here from April until October. Then I’d be touring wherever I could in the winter, but I was based in the UK.
In summer 2012 my husband unfortunately suffered some health issues, and we had to take a decision to either stay in the uk, or live here year-round.
I had always wanted to do a winter on Ibiza, so we moved to the island full-time in summer 2013. And we have been here ever since.
Q: What would you have done if you hadn’t have become a DJ?
A: Well I actually qualified in science. I have a degree in biology, a masters in medical microbiology and qualifications in molecular biology and respiratory physiology. I also worked during my early DJ days at a London hospital. If I wasn’t playing music, I’d most likely still be doing a career that’s connected to my medical background.
Music though was my passion and my dream. I played piano and the guitar, and was in a choir right through school. I started raving from a young age. So I believe that I was always destined to live in world filled with music.
Q: If you had to choose your favourite club that you’ve played at on the island, which one would it be and why?
A: Oh god that’s really hard, as I’ve honestly enjoyed all of the clubs that I’ve ever played at. None of the sets I’ve played have been taken for granted.
Those early Charlys Angelz days at Summum and Sundance were so special to me. Obviously Eden for Judgement Sundays, One More Time, Back To Front and Peach. Space for Álex P’s Birthday, Privilege for Connect, Cream and Kevin and Perry at Amnesia. Also Armin’s night at Hï, Es Paradis for various nights, Play 2 and more.
Honestly, I can’t choose one as they all brought such amazing memories and moments for me.
Q: If you could play back-to-back with any artist in the world (dead or alive), who would it be and why?
A: Another tough one! I’d probably say Tony De Vit. I’d have loved to have had just one night on the decks to learn from his genius.
There are so many DJs around today though, that it still would be a dream to play alongside.
Q: Can you name one song, just one that’s your all time favourite, and the reason behind it?
A: One of my all time favourite songs is Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean”. I just loved MJ as an artist, and his music to me is timeless. That bassline though!
Q: What’s your fondest memory of playing here on the island?
A: Oh again that’s tough! I’ve now been here 24 years, and I’ve made a million memories along the way. But I think the first time I played all the clubs and events I’ve listed were super special. Plus doing the Radio One Weekend with Judgement was incredible, and a lifetime dream come true.
Q: What’s the one club here that you always wanted to play at, but haven’t had the chance to yet?
A: It has to be DC10 for a trance event. A girl can dream, right?
Q: Be honest, do you miss playing on vinyl, or have you embraced the modern way of mixing these days?
A: I still have my Technics, plus all my vinyl. I quite often go out to buy new vinyl and have a little jam too. I just love it. There’s nothing quite like having that tune on wax. But by the same token I love all you can do with the new tech, and I certainly don’t miss carrying all those heavy bags of vinyl around either!
Q: What’s in store for Vicky Devine this summer?
A: I’m so grateful to be able to say I’m back as resident for One More Time at Eden. Again I get to play classic tunes from across the ages, alongside some amazing Ibiza legends in a club where I myself have been playing at for 24 years. It’s unbelievable, and I still enjoy every moment. I can’t wait for the next installment on August 15th. Apart from that I’ve had some one off shows, and I also work full-time in music publishing and artist management for Truelove Music.
Q: And in the near future?
A: I’m getting back to the studio. I did a remix of one of my all time favourite classic trance tracks “Need To Feel Loved”, which I did as a giveaway just before the summer. And now am working on a new vocal track for later this year, or early next year.
Apart from that I’m looking to relaunch my label and radio show. Two things I used to love doing, but had to temporarily put on hold. I’m aching to get back to it all, so watch this space! And finally I’ve lots of music-related things coming within my role at Truelove Music. Not least some exciting releases for an artist I manage, as well as some fabulous syncs to wrap up.
Music is the gift that keeps on giving, so who knows what else is in store.
Don’t forget you can get your tickets for One More Time on the 15th of August and the 22nd August at Eden. Where Vicky will once again, tear the roof off!
You can listen to her remix of the classic track ‘Need to Feel Loved‘ here. Or for more information on Vicky’s events and work click here.
Written by Alexandra Ellis for IBIZA DISCO TICKET
