Zoe Reijue makes a welcome return to her own self-titled record label this month, as her newest single ‘Cheap Boy’ marks the second outing from the recently-minted imprint.
The Berlin-based DJ and producer talks about her process in making the track, what other record labels she’s planning to release on soon, and more. Read the interview in full below.
How are things in the life of Zoe Reijue right now?
I’m doing well, just chilling and making music during winter in Berlin. It’s been a great time to focus on writing and refining my sound. I’m also planning my gigs for the summer and fall. By the way, come to my show in March at Void Club and at Beate Uwe ‘Barfuß’ in May!
You recently returned to your own Zoe Reijue Limited imprint for the release of ‘Cheap Boy’ – talk us through how the single came together in the studio?
I was exploring rhythmic, bouncy groove, the kind that makes you want to move instinctively. Performing live has taught me a lot about what really works on the dancefloor, and that energy shaped the track.
Beyond the sound, the main idea touches on gender equality, ‘Cheap Boy’ refers to people who seek validation through money or by objectifying others. There are plenty of derogatory words aimed at women. Studies, like the one from Stanford University on gendered language and implicit bias, show that women face significantly more judgment based on appearance and behaviour, while similar behaviours in men often go unquestioned.
You’ve signed music to labels such as Amselcom and Crépite in the past. What has working with different labels taught you about running your own?
Working with Amselcom and Crépite has been a great experience, and honestly, creating my own label wasn’t some grand plan, it was more of a necessity. I wanted to release my music across all platforms, and the only way to do that was by setting up a label. Zoe Reijue Limited exists because of that, and for now it’s mainly a place for my own releases.
And which other labels might we see you on in the near future?
You’ll probably see more of my music on MŎNɅDɅ, KataHaifisch, and Afterhour Sounds in the near future. I’m excited to share new music through these labels.
This is your second release on Zoe Reijue Limited. Will you be welcoming other artists to the label at some point too?
Right now, Zoe Reijue Limited is just a way for me to put out my own music without limitations. If I ever feel like expanding it, I’ll think about bringing in other artists, but for now, it’s just me.
What’s one track you’ve been absolutely loving so far this year?
One track I’ve been loving this year is my remix of Ninze’s ‘Dreamers’. It has that deep, hypnotic groove that pulls you in, which is something I always aim for in my music.
Anything else you want to talk about before we finish up?
Just a big thank you to everyone who listens, dances, and supports what I do. The connection between the artist and the crowd means a lot, and I can’t wait to share more music and moments with you all. See you on the dancefloor!
Zoe Reijue – Cheap Boy is out now on Zoe Reijue Limited.