“Being a DJ is the perfect career for motherhood. I don’t have to find childcare Monday to Friday, 9-5, and I’m not missing spending time with my son during the day.
DJing also allows you to be flexible, I choose the dates and times for gigs which suit me – that’s something most other careers don’t allow you to do.”
As you may have heard, the UK born, top 5 charter DJ Jodie Weston recently gave birth to her son. Despite only being a couple of months postpartum, she continues to perform at events and sets up to 4 evenings a week, with her performing her first DJ set just 9 days postpartum.
Many mums have faced prejudice in the workplace, and in the music and tv industry, it’s no different. Jodie didn’t want to be outcast because of her choice to have a baby, she didn’t want to lose opportunities, and she didn’t want people to think she couldn’t handle a baby and a boss career.
Only 32% of DJs are women, and 18% get selected for events and festivals. Jodie believed being a new mum would’ve hindered her already slight chances. But, she kept going and has played in regular DJ sets, releasing music, and staying on top of her game (power move).
“A lot of female DJs take a break once they have children as many don’t believe the club scene is a ‘good look’ for mums. I want to prove they’re wrong.”
Tips to other DJ mums
“Do what makes you feel happy, don’t listen to the opinions of others and don’t seek approval from others.”
“If you need to earn money, or if you want to pursue your passion and you’re good at it, then you should never feel that you have to give that up! It’s 2022, not the 1950’s.”
The journey so far
Nothing comes without judgement. Jodie has had friends who looked down on her for continuing to DJ. “It takes years to build up momentum and I wasn’t going to let my hard work go to waste.” Maybe other women have listened to the opinions of others and parked their dreams once they became mums, but that’s not what I’m about.”
“I’ve been through a lot to get where I am, and I want to continue. I want to be a success for my son and for myself”
Jodie revealed that her mental health had deteriorated towards the end of her pregnancy. Before being pregnant, she had experienced many dark sides of the industry. Falling pregnant, Jodie hoped and prayed that her career would continue and work itself out. She worked very hard and continues to do so but was incredibly anxious about how people would receive the fact she is now a mum.
“After I’d given birth, I had to give up a residency DJ slot that I’d held for a year as I couldn’t play for 3 weeks. Thankfully, things have started to pick back up now I’m back in action with two new residencies already.”
Jodie credits herself to being able to keep pushing forwards and not shying away from opportunities. She has now been able to fill her December with 20 gig dates making her busier than ever.
Some of Jodies hits
*Jodie Weston Ft. Charlotte Branson – Think about me. A top 5 hit across 3 different official music week chart channels.
*Jodie Weston Ft. Ali Mish – Give a little love.
*Jodie Weston & LaNesra – Stay with you.
What her fans say about Jodies music
Jodie’s fans and attendees at the events she DJs at LOVE her sets. She always has an enthusiastic crowd two-stepping away. Many are glad Jodie continues to put on a great performance.
Futuristic Polarbears commented “Vibes On Vibes” and the well-known DJ, DJ Xquizit said, “Tearin’ that club up!!!”.
