Hot Girls

What Rihanna Taught me about Confidence

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 09:01:09 GMT

Last series, I looked at the careers of some of the most successful female artists of all time, breaking down their journeys to learn how they got to where they got to, what career and life lessons we could pull from them and how they experienced their success, verses how we experienced it as onlookers.

I believe that Hip hop is about overcoming adversity and reggae is finding peace in conflict and so much of our conflict as human beings is internal. This season I want to look at the lives of the powerful female creators, focusing on a particular quality which they embody to me and which can have a positive impact on all of our lives if we bring it into our own lives a bit more.

For this first episode I’m looking at possibly my favourite artist of all time. Someone I love both for her versatility as an artist but also for what she represents as a woman. One of the greatest popstars, one of the wealthiest women in the world and one of the baddest.

This is an episode in the confidence of Rihanna.

Hot Girls Handles:

Mixes - https://soundcloud.com/lexonthedecks/sets/hot-girls-the-mixes

Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0M8WInsGc6kYGht82WXPgz

Insta - @LexOnTheDecks

Twitter - @LexOnTheDecks

Tiktok - @LexOnTheDecks

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Songwriting, and Navigating the Music Industry While Growing Up. An Interview with Artist and Songwriter RuthAnne.

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 17:32:59 GMT

It was RuthAnne’s powerful vocals which first caught the attention of a manager when she was a teenager living in Ireland. She’d created a demo tape herself and with undeniable talent, was offered the opportunity to go to Los Angeles and begin working towards a career as a musician. In one of her first ever writing sessions, she ended up writing ‘Too lIttle Too Late’, the platinum selling single which would go on to be released by Jojo. Having unexpectedly found this success as a song-writer, RuthAnne went on to write music for One Direction, Bebe Rexha, and Britney Spears, to name a few. As an artist she’s found her own lane and chats to about her upcoming EP and album, her ideal creative environment, and building the right room.

RuthAnne Handles:

@thisisruthanne

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

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Hot Girl History: Ms Lauryn Hill

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 10:08:21 GMT

This week I take a look at a woman who's relatively short music catalog has had an incredible legacy.

As always, this isn’t just a biography, but we’re looking at the decisions she made in her career and challenges, to get to where she has.

Ms Lauryn Hill Handles:

IG and Twitter: @MsLaurynHill

Hot Girls Handles:

Mixes - https://soundcloud.com/lexonthedecks/sets/hot-girls-the-mixes

Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0M8WInsGc6kYGht82WXPgz

Insta - @LexOnTheDecks

Twitter - @LexOnTheDecks

Tiktok - @LexOnTheDecks

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Collaborations, Travelling the World and the ideal Studio, an Interview with Ashibah

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 12:38:57 GMT

Danish / Egyptian DJ, singer and producer Ashibah has been steadily building an impressive discography, wearing the hats of singer, songwriter, producer, collaborator and DJ. Over the years, she has collaborated with artists like Purple Disco Machine, Vintage Culture, Robosonic, Sharam Jey, Jean Bacarreza and published songs on Keno records, Loulou records, Bunny Tiger and more. A captivating performer, Ashibah catches up with Lex to talk about her approach to creativity, collaboration and Ableton or Logic?!

Ashibah Handles

@ashibah

Lex Handles

@lexonthedecks

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First Gigs, and Prioritising, an Interview with DJ Krystal Roxx

Thu, 25 Nov 2021 15:16:53 GMT

This week, Lex chats to Krystal Roxx. Krystal's had a thriving DJ career, which has seen her perform worldwide alongside the likes of Fatboy Slim, Annie-Mac, Anne Marie, Basement Jaxx and Groove Armada. Her L.A.B EP which launched in 2020 has smashed it's way through 2 Million streams. 'I Feel Ya' marks the start of a series of releases with Ultra Music which will see Krystal collaborate with some of the biggest names in Dance Music. She's also behind 'Superfoxx' and their long standing show on Soho Radio.

Krystal Handles:

@krystalroxx

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

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What MC Lyte Taught Me About Being First

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 15:52:06 GMT

Hello and welcome to Hot Girls with Lex On The Decks. This is the show where we explore the mechanics of the music industry, through intimate conversations on creativity and biography episodes exploring the lives of iconic artists.

This week Lex takes it back to the early 90s to look at the career of MC Lyte. One of the first major selling rap MCs, Lyte was directional and hungry. There was no-one for Lyte to mimic, she had to define the pattern.

This is how she did it.

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

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Music as a Way of Life; An Interview with singer and 'Trash' co-founder, Indira May

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 12:05:29 GMT

Indira May is this week's guest on Hot Girls. A singer-songwriter based in London, whose captivating melange of Jazz, Soul and Hip Hop has got people talking. From collaborations with dance trio Jaded, to the development of her video for 'When I Hear The Music', she chats through growing up in a musical home and the challenges of thriving as a female in the industry.

Indira Handles:

@indiramay

@trashfilmsandmusic

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

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What Madonna Taught Me About Independance

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 19:27:40 GMT

One of the most influential artists to have lived, Madonna is the subject of much admiration and much criticism. But what is she really like? And how did she become one of the ten best selling singers of all time.

This is a lesson in independence, by Madonna.

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

Madonna Handles:

@madonna

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Longevity, Collaboration, and the Journey of Sounds: An Interview with Donae'O

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 17:19:57 GMT

This week Lex is joined by none other than Donae’O. One of the originators of UK Funky a genre that defined a period of raving, he’s gone on to have a rich career as an artist and producer, releasing consistently and building on the legacy he laid with tracks like Party Hard and Devil in a Blue Dress. On this episode of Hot Girls, Donae'O chats me through some of the philosophies he subscribes too, how sounds develop and being particular with the sounds he uses.

Donae'O Handles:

@donaeo

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

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What Dionne Warwick Taught Me About Grace

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 13:34:42 GMT

Dionne Warwick. One of the most remarkable singers to have lived. I believe that. A woman who had a gift and put it to the best possible use. In partnership with Hal David and Burt Bacharach she delivered some of the most timeless and emotive songs of all time and has had a career spanning over 60years.

This is a lesson in Grace, from Dionne Warwick

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

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UK Women in Hip-Hop and Inspiring Younger Gens through Creativity: An Interview with Shay D

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 16:18:14 GMT

This week, Lex is joined by Shay D. A London based rapper, who’s recent release ‘Speaking in Tongues’ reflects the development of an artist who’s been bubbling and releasing, and championing women in rap for time. Shay started in the spoken word space, running her own poetry nights - she also founded and led the first all-female UK hip-hop tour, and is a champion for underrepresented voices in all space. She’s genuinely so lovely but also so creative and a hustler in the best sense of the word. Shay D on the hot girls podcast.

Shay D Handles:

@shaydrap

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

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What Salt-N-Pepa Taught Me About Happy Accidents

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 09:44:03 GMT

This is the first Hot Girl History episode of Season 5 and I’m kicking it off, with a group who Queen Latifah says completely changed the game for women in hip-hop.

Salt-N-Pepa. A group, with two women, a DJ and a male producer, Herbie. This episode will explore what they taught me about happy accidents.

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

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Self-recording, Celebrations and Faith with Naomi Kimpenu

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 13:35:25 GMT

Naomi Kimpenu is one of the most exciting singer-songwriters to emerge this Autumn. With ballads which combine beautiful melodies with soulful vocals, her decision to put an EP out this year, came following many years of development and exploration. As a self-proclaimed perfectionist, Naomi made the decision to record and produce the project herself. Here she shares that journey and decision making process with Lex, as well as looking ahead to collaborating for the next phase of her output as an artist.

Naomi Handles:

@naomikimpenu

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

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Touring, Perfectionism and The Truest Route to Success with Terry Hooligan, DJ, Founder of My DJ Hub and On The Rise DJ Academy

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 09:29:51 GMT

This week Lex is joined by one of her mentors, DJ Terry Hooligan.

Terry also known as part of the duo, Atomic Hooligan, is the owner of On The Rise DJ academy and a DJ and producer and label founder. Through this conversation Lex gets to turn the tables and ask him all the questions about his journey in music - the wonderful exhausting emotional ride that it is pursuing your passion and what it takes to make that work and make it real.

Terry Handles:

@terry_hooligan

@ontherisedjacademy

@mydjhub

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

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What Nelly Furtado Taught Me About An Artist's Evolution

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 11:59:04 GMT

An artist who’s breakthrough album landed her a grammy and a world tour, alongside U2. An artist who’s worked with Timbaland, Salaam Remi and Pharrell Williams, and who writes 99% of her own songs.

With huge accolades to her name, the thing I wanted to understand by looking at Nelly Furtado, is how she’s morphed and transformed so much throughout her career. With an unconventional sound and a consistent gravitational pull towards worldly sounds which are quite hard to really describe Nelly surprised many with the scale of her success. Now 15years after the release of I’m like a bird… this is a lesson in an artists evolution. By Nelly Furtado.

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

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Radio, Music Production, Managing Deadlines, and Navigating the Industry a Second Time Around, with KG

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 07:55:46 GMT

KG, full name Karen Nyame, has had a love affair with music for a long time, and over the past couple of years, following the release of a first EP 'Sensei' on Jamz Supernova's 'Future Bounce' label, has had people's ears pricking up. Alongside her work as a producer, she's had regular shows on London's Foundation FM, Rinse FM and NTS radio leading up to where she is now, breaking the greatest in Dance music on Capital Dance.

A deep, rounded and open conversation. Hot Girls presents, KG.

KG Handles

@karennyamekg

Lex Handles

@lexonthedecks

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What Alicia Keys Taught Me About Songwriting

Sat, 07 Aug 2021 09:06:16 GMT

This week I’m looking at one of the music industry’s darlings. A superstar, known for her ability on the piano as much as with the vocal chords. Often considered a prodigy for what she achieved so young, Alicia had to navigate the industries challenges like everyone else, to forge what has been a career of consistency and longevity.

This is a lesson in song-writing by Alicia Keys

@lexonthedecks

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Miami, Directing and Ayahuasca with Director Des Gray

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 06:42:25 GMT

This week Lex sits down with video Director, Des Grey. Des started life in the island of Haiti, and where she’s at right now is directing music videos for artists like Davido, Chris Brown, Rick Ross, and Lil Baby, goes almost without saying that her journey has been an interesting one and was something she had to create and carve out for herself. She chats us through that process in detail, as well as her spirituality, relationships, and inspirations.

Des Handles:

@_desgray

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

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What Chaka Khan Taught Me About Diva

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 07:03:01 GMT

This week I’m taking a look at a soul icon who was a huge influence to many including Aretha Franklin, Prince, Erykah Badu and Kanye West.. One of the great divas, who’s life has not been without its battles. Having begun her career in an otherwise all male band, Chaka was an un-diminishable star.

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

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Songwriting, Self-Confidence and Transparency with Artist Kelly Kiara

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 06:13:59 GMT

This week you’re in for a treat as I’m joined by the brilliant female force that is Kelly Kiara.

Through this conversation we talk about confidence, sexuality, vulnerability and going viral verses networking and establishing new material, all through the lens of songwriting and storytelling. It’s a really well rounded chat with a lot of self-reflection so I hope you enjoy and it makes you smile listening through.

Kelly Kiara on the Hot Girls Podcast - lets go!

Kelly Handles:

@kellykiara

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

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What Amy Winehouse Taught Me About Timeless-ness

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 19:17:00 GMT

I often wonder who will be the artists of today which we’ll look back on and toast to as being truly great. I think to have that status of being an icon, like The Beatles, Bob Dylan, or Aretha Franklin, your music needs to have an enduring sound, and that isn’t necessarily tied to popularity of the day.

The strange thing for me about someone like Amy Winehouse was that I remember seeing her on T4 running around doing some hilarious mad press thing with SImon Amstell way before Back to Black. And then I watched as she grew up and delivered these songs that just were so distinctive, so moving, so timeless and so cross generational.

While there are lots of recent and fascinating documentaries about Amy out there what I really wanted to focus this episode on was how she created and established herself in the first place. She made really great music but there’s a lot that goes into that beyond just having a great voice and natural ear so that’s what I’m going to be digging into.

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

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Vision Boards, Musical Theatre, and L.A. with Lavaud

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 06:09:58 GMT

This week Lex chats to singer-songwriter Lavaud who recently released her debut EP King Vaud ft the track Oh My with Reekado Banks. Having grown up in Hackney, with musical parents Lavaud (full name, Estelle Lavaud) was surrounded by creativity, but she's had to forge her own path in this industry. We chat about her journey to this place, from collaborations, to the various label signings, to the growth process which happens around that. And then TikTok....

Lavaud Handles

@iamlavaud

Lex Handles

@lexonthedecks

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What Enya Taught Me About Music

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 08:22:44 GMT

This week I’m looking at an artist who has had an insane and from the outset, probably completely unpredictable level of success. She’s also someone who creates a completely different kind of music to anyone else I’ve looked at this season. I’ve decided to look at Enya, partly because she is one of my favourite artists, but also because of the way her music has been sampled in hip hop.

Being an outsider to the worlds who have sampled her, meant Enya almost got cut out of the credit she deserved but instead it ended up making her a huge amount of money and landing her a place in history as one of the most unique composers and artists of a generation. Her incredible legacy and net worth have fascinated people as she hasn’t toured, she does very little press and generally operates in totally different ways to the conventions of her worlds. As one vice reporter put it: Have you ever wondered how a reclusive Irish new age artist outsold Aretha Franklin?

This is a lesson in music, by Enya.

Lex Handles:

IG / Twitter: @lexonthedecks

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A&R, Black Music Coalition, Speaking Up and Career Journeys, with Komali Scott-Jones

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 06:23:01 GMT

This week Lex sits down with Komali, who is an A&R at Parlophone Records, looking after the likes of Hamzaa and Mnelia. She chats us through her career journey, inspirations, juggling and successes in a conversation of inspiration and insight!

Komali Handles:

@komali_krldn

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

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What Lisa 'Left Eye' Lopes Taught Me About Finding Your Space

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 07:03:12 GMT

Growing up, the first time I heard the name “Lisa Left-Eye Lopes" was when she stepped onto the top of the pops stage alongside Sporty Spice to perform the single ‘Never Be The Same Again’. I bought Mel C’s album off the back of that and as a literal child found that song dope. I came to know her later as the MC in TLC but never really realised just quite how successful and dominant TLC were as a group in the 90s.

While this episode will centre around Left Eye, I’ll obviously talk about the group’s journey because that was so much a part of her. Fittingly, this episode is going live in a particular season known as GEMINI SEASON and I was thinking when I first started watching Lisa in interviews that something in her reminded me of myself and then saw her be described as a true gemini and thought ahhh that's what it is. We both crazy.

But more than crazy, she was a brilliant brilliant MC. So slick and smooth and despite having her life cut short, aged just 30, she delivered so much in the time that she was around.

So this is a lesson in finding your space, by Lisa Lopes.

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

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Creativity, Collaboration and Consistency with Blue Lab Beats

Wed, 26 May 2021 07:45:23 GMT

Hello guys and welcome to Hot Girls with me Lex On The Decks. This week I am joined by the very brilliant and focused Blue Lab Beats. A production duo comprised of NK-OK and David aka Mr DM. Having released their first EP in 2016 they’ve gone on to work with talent like Moses Boyd, Nubya Garcia, Kojey Radical and Sampa the Great. I was fascinated in how they’d come together as a duo, and how they’ve approached their careers to be carving out the space they are. Being able too flex their musical abilities across a fusion of genres, they’ve also been proactive in trying to encourage more women to get into production which if you don’t know is one of the biggest gaps when it comes to gender imbalance in the industry.

The guys were super open about their journey and what they’re prepping for.

Blue Lab Beats Handles:

@bluelab_beats

Lex On The Decks

@lexonthedecks

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What Nina Simone Taught Me About Conflict

Wed, 19 May 2021 16:59:05 GMT

Today I’m taking you through the life and musical legacy of Nina Simone. A musician I first heard through her famed and powerful rendition of “Ain’t Got No, I got Life..” I heard it when i was still in primary school and was introduced to it as part of the limited education about the slave trade and impact of racism. I didn’t know anything about the singer herself so now I’m putting that right. A film came out about her recently which is on Netflix so if you’ve watched that you’ll be familiar with some of the many struggles she faced in making sense of the world, her choices, and how she became quite such a brilliant pianist.

Nina Simone wasn’t a singer, she was a communicator. And she communicated from passion, frustration, pain and belief.

This is a lesson in conflict by Nina Simone

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

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Grime, Photography and the Energy of Live Shows with Ellie Ramsden

Wed, 12 May 2021 05:48:10 GMT

This is the first episode of Season 4 of Hot Girls and Lex catches up with Ellie Ramsden to talk about photography, self-publishing, and the journeys of the many women she's captured and met. The conversation also touches on the responsibility of artists to tell truthful stories and capture history in its breadth and entirety.

Ellie Handles:

@ellie_ramsden

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

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Drum and Bass, 1Xtra, Raving and Mentorship with DJ Flight

Wed, 05 May 2021 05:24:09 GMT

Hello and welcome to the final episode of season 3 of Hot Girls. Don’t panic, we’re coming back for a forth season and you won’t have to wait long for it, but to round off this season we caught up with the first woman to host a national weekly drum and bass show. One of the pioneers of the genre and a founding voice on BBC 1Xtra flight has also worked proactively to tackle diversity in the musical spaces she operates in through founding EQ50. We talk about all of that and moreee so enjoy guys and don’t forget to subscribe and tell a friend if you think they’d enjoy. DJ Flight on the Hot Girls Podcast.

DJ Flight Handles:

@DJFlight

Lex On The Decks:

@lexonthedecks

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What Eve Taught Me About Entrepreneurship

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 09:00:54 GMT

This week I’m looking at a chart topping rapper who was rare in her originality. A fusion of street smarts and pop style, Eve blew up as part of the Ruff Ryders crew. The label also responsible for the early growth of DMX and Swizz Beatz.

Undoubtedly someone who broke boundaries and defied conventions, Eve’s journey to number 1 was fast but included lots of initial ups and downs. She had to carve her own path and has experienced both being the label favourite and releasing independently.

This is a lesson in Entrepreneurship, by Eve.

Eve Handles:

@therealeve

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

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Calypso, Island Pop, Accidents and Inspiration with Kalpee

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 08:11:09 GMT

This week Lex is joined by Kalpee. Kalpee’s a part of a group of West Indian musicians from the Caribbean who are reviving acknowledgement of a sound known as ‘Island Pop’. A talented artist but also a super grateful, humble, just generally sound guy. We’re gonna talk about how he came to music from growing up in Trinidad and Tobago and what he’s learnt about how to get that music heard.

Kalpee Handles

@kalpee

Lex Handles

@lexonthedecks

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What Aaliyah Taught Me About Legacy

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 08:33:42 GMT

Despite being killed in a tragic accident aged 22, Aaliyah had been creating impactful music for over 6years and so left behind a legacy that artists would work a lifetime to try and come close to.

Drake said that Aaliyah was the artist who’s had the biggest impact on his music, and Missy Elliott reflected recently on how the singer continued to inspire generations every day. As well as the huge amount of respect and adoration towards her music Aaliyah was also linked to scandal after it was revealed that she was an early victim of R Kelly and married him illegally aged 15 years old.

I’ll touch a bit on that and how she was always sort of ahead of her age, and also about how she achieved so much in such a short amount of time and what she embraced to leave behind what she did. It feels maybe quite poignant that I’d been working on this episode and then the sad news of DMX passing came and people were sharing photos of them saying they’re together again.

This is a lesson in legacy, by Aaliyah.

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

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Motorsport, Fabric, DJing and Identity, with NINJA

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 06:37:31 GMT

This week Lex is joined by NINJA, fresh off the back of her interview with the legend Carl Cox. They chat about music as a healing space for Farah, how she built her international network and bringing together different hobbies and worlds.

NINJA Handles

@dj.n1nja

Lex Handles

@lexonthedecks

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What Anastacia Taught Me About Control

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 09:13:27 GMT

This week I’m looking at an artist who I personally wonder if she’s slightly overlooked when it comes to the great divas. Because in my mind she’s there. At 5ft 2inches tall, Anastacia had a voice which was alarmingly big for her teeny stature. Her story is jam packed with lessons about humanity, femininity and super stardom. From being plagued with physical health challenges, she was extremely resilient and positive. With an incredibly distinctive sound her music definitely defined a period of time in my growing up and is such an inspirational woman.

This is a lesson in control by Anastacia.

@lexonthedecks

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Voice Notes, Staying Active, Touring and Rudimental, with MORGAN

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 09:37:26 GMT

This week, Lex is boosted by the focus of a star on the rise. Having grown up obsessed with music, when most of her friend’s went to college, Morgan went on tour and began a whole different kind of education.

With releases through 2020 showing her breadth as an artist, from the ultra smooth 'Sanctuary', to the announcement single 'My Year' to the huge rudimental track ‘Be The One’, it’s been a really interesting year for her creatively.

Intro Track: Mulholland Drive - MORGAN

MORGAN Handles:

IG - @morganconniesmith

Twitter - @knownasmorgan

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

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What Destiny's Child Taught Me About Focus

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 12:21:11 GMT

This week, I’m doing something a little different, and taking a look at the musical journey of not just one woman, but three. Destiny’s Child were a super group who achieved super success. Three magical talents, which together formed a group of rare longevity and icon stature. Rather than centre on the individuals, in this episode I’ll walk you through their career as a group. The foundation, the dynamics, the failures and the methods which meant those failures weren’t the end point.

This is a lesson in focus, by Destiny’s Child

@lexonthedecks

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Musical Lineage, Independence and Jamming with Paul McCartney, with Shingai

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 08:32:19 GMT

This week Lex is joined by Shingai Shoniwa. Shingai rose to prominence as the lead singer and bassist for The Noisettes. After a really incredible journey in that band she is now releasing music as a solo artist under her own label. She is the most magical spirit and an entertainer in every sense of the word. Through this conversation we cover so many of the things which have influenced and shaped her career.

It's a conversation, both hilarious and insightful.

Shingai Handles:

@shingai

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

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What Aretha Franklin Taught Me About Power

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:53:54 GMT

Later on this year a biographical film is being released starring Jennifer Hudson which will attempt to tell the story of one of the most remarkable artists of all time. Aretha Franklin died in August 2018 having released nearly 40 albums, had multiple number one singles, multiple grammy awards. But more than her musical legacy, Aretha’s voice and songs soundtracked a revolution and became a huge part of the civil rights movement in America. Perhaps this journey and the hope embedded deep in her voice is why she has a tendency to bring Barack Obama to tears in public places.

The nuances and complexities of Aretha’s journey are part of what sits behind that incredible voice. She is a soul campaigner who sang from her core and moved communities and particularly black communities and made audiences feel they were experiencing divine magic when they watched her.

This is an episode about power as taught by Aretha Franklin

@lexonthedecks

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Production, Collaboration and Trusting Your Taste, with Linden Jay

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 08:03:12 GMT

This week, Lex is joined by Linden Jay. A multi-faceted musician who's refused to pick a lane when it comes to the type of music he puts out or the genre of artist he works with. From Born Dirty, to Farr, to his work with Erick the Architect he's a producer who continues to excite himself creatively. Through this conversation, Linden Jay shares what he's learnt about forging a professional career in music, and shares some brilliant advice applicable to all creatives and self-employed people.

Linden Handles:

@lindenjay

Lex Handles

@lexonthedecks

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What Foxy Brown Taught Me About Talent

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 10:14:08 GMT

This week I’m looking at an artist, who, I knew very little about before deciding deliberately to look into her. She’s one of the best rappers of all time, one of the highest charting females and in her prime was undeniable, but yet I’m sure lots of people now don’t know her music well.

She rose alongside Nas and Jay-Z. She was famous at the age of 16 and by the time she was 18 she’d sold over 2million copies of her records. She’s also the one artist Nicki Minaj credits above all others as an influence.

This is an episode about talent. As told via the journey of Foxy Brown.

Foxy Brown Handles:

@foxybrown

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Songwriting, Thinking Big and Living Your Purpose with Bellah

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 07:50:30 GMT

Today Lex is joined by a UK artist at possibly quite a pivotal point in her career. Her name is Bellah and after releasing music for a couple of years, last year she delivered an EP called The Art of Conversation that made everyone’s ears prick up.

Having been spotted by management at a local festival, where she was flanked by a full squad pot dancers Bellah is someone who is that special combination of huge dreamer a sharp pragmatism to create those dreams, something I think you’ll get a sense of as she chats through her journey and the things which have shaped her.

Bellah on the Hot Girls Podcast.

Bellah Handles:

@IBeBellah

Lex Handles:

@LexOnTheDecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Faith, Resilience and Not Stopping with Alicai Harley

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 08:54:38 GMT

Today Lex is boosted by the energy of Alicai Harley, a UK Dancehall top shotter.

Alicai’s career accelerated fast after a friend suggested she challenge herself to write, record and shoot a new video every week. She was like umm OK, I have no money or resources but let’s try. In the 10th week she recorded a song which got picked up, signed and changed her life, racking up millions of streams and views on YouTube.

Since then she has not stopped and through this 40minute conversation she shares that journey, pulling back the curtain on the resilience she’s needed and also saying thank you to God for the blessings and the support in the trying times.

With a new EP out, this is Alicai Harley on the Hot Girls Podcast.

Alicai Handles:

@alicaiharley

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What Queen Latifah Taught Me About Fortitude

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 12:15:44 GMT

Hot Girl History: Queen Latifah

While a lot of the women I’ve explored throughout this series have worked in film or TV in some capacity, very few have done both with the consistency and execution that today’s artist has. In 2002 she became a household name among a new generation after being cast and receiving an Oscar nomination for her performance as Matron Mama Morton in the film version of Chicago. Quite an achievement for someone who’s her first role in the entertainment industry was as a rapper. And a bloody good one.

Queen Latifah is often considered the ultimate hip-hop feminist, and throughout the next 15minutes or so I’m going to show you how she did what she did, why I want artists to be inspired by her now and why we should pay homage.

This is a lesson in fortitude, by Queen Latifah.

Queen Latifah Handles:

@queenlatifah

Lex Handles:

@lexonthedecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What Kelis Taught Me About Expression

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 09:00:28 GMT

Hot Girl History: Kelis

This is the first Hot Girl History Episode of Season 3 and I wanted to open up by looking in depth at an artist who arrived on the scene with one of the loudest and most unconventional hits I can think of. Since her debut single she’s spent more than 20years at the top of the game, consistently pushing music forwards and defying expectations of what it means to be a black female artist.

Her first album was exclusively produced by The Neptunes, and since then she’s put out a new album every 3-4years. I’m talking about Kelis. She’s a creator and a professional. An artist who did not ever conform to the popstar ideal, was and still is very much her own person, causing much confusion and a little infamy. She’s almost like an indie star who made it mainstream and made indie weirdness cool.

Kelis is evidence that you can be a marketing nightmare and still be very successful. i-D magazine recently described her as “perpetually misunderstood”, and I’m hoping over the next 15mins you’ll start to understand her perhaps a little better.

Today’s artist is Kelis, and this episode will explore what she taught me about expression.

Kelis Handles:

Twitter - @Kelis

Instagram - @Kelis

Lex Handles:

Twitter - @lexonthedecks

Instagram - @lexonthedecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Releasing during Covid, Soundcloud, and 2021 Goals with Rachel Foxx

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 06:32:09 GMT

This week, Lex is joined by Rachel Foxx. Rachel is one of a brilliant number of women formulating the sounds of UK jazz influenced alt RnB. She has this rich satiny voice, and ability to blend new ideas and vocal arrangements, with classic instrumental sounds.

Having been building her visibility and following in the industry for a few years she’s had to take a different approach to releasing this year as performing was ripped away.

Rachel made me lol with the challenges she’s been working through, and also shared some great advice that she’s learnt over the past few years - it’s an energising conversation to kick off the year.

Lex x

Rachel Handles:

Insta: @rachelfoxxinc

Twitter: @RACHELFOXXINC

Lex Handles:

Insta: @lexonthedecks

Twitter: @lexonthedecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

House Music, Trusting the signs, Ibiza and Ownership with Ultra Naté

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 19:05:47 GMT

This week on the final episode of Season 2, we bring a long and in depth conversation with the phenomenal, Ultra Naté. A woman who's been inspired by so many different artists and genres and different times, allowing her to blend seamlessly into different scenes and deliver some of the most iconic and recognisable tracks of all time.

Ultra Naté Handles:

IG - @ultranatemusic

Twitter - @ultranatemusic

Lex Handles:

Twitter - @lexonthedecks

Instagram - @lexonthedecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What Koffee Taught Me About Gratitude

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 11:51:22 GMT

An artist who's not quite Dancehall, and not quite Reggae. Koffee had one of the fastest rises to Global success I've ever seen. Here we explore how she navigated the industry and how gratitude helped her get to where she has.

Koffee Handles:

Instagram - @originalkoffee

Hot Girls Handles:

Mixes - https://soundcloud.com/lexonthedecks/sets/hot-girls-the-mixes

Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0M8WInsGc6kYGht82WXPgz

Insta - @LexOnTheDecks

Twitter - @LexOnTheDecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Girls About Peckham, Gentrification, BLM, and community with Natalie Worgs, founder of gIRLS aBOUT pPECKHAM

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 07:41:13 GMT

This week Lex chats with Natalie Worgs. As the founder of gIRLS aBOUT pECKHAM Natalie takes an intimate look at the area she's from and celebrates the individuals within it. Through her instagram, fundraising competitions and zine, she brings together key members of this creative hub to retain its energy amongst huge shifts triggered by gentrification. This is an intimate conversation about society.

GAP Handles:

Insta: @girlsaboutpeckham

Twitter: @girlsaboutpeck1

Lex Handles:

Twitter: @lexonthedecks

Instagram: @lexonthedecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What Ciara Taught Me About Self-Belief

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 18:25:48 GMT

This week, I wanted to look at someone who I have huge personal admiration for. She’s someone who has had great commercial success, longevity, and hits a consistent bar with her music, but I don’t necessarily hear her shouted out that often as an inspiration. I guess I wanted to just challenge that and remind people of her greatness. As well as exploring the career journey she’s had and how her self-belief has been fundamental in maintaining that. The success I mentioned includes 3, top 3 albums, 4x grammy nominations, over 8million monthly Spotify listeners, video views of over 1.5billion, and the longest-running number-one debut single by a female artist in the past 30years.

The artist is Ciara, and this episode will explore what she taught me about self-belief.

Ciara Handles:

Insta: @ciara

Twitter: @ciara

Hot Girls Handles:

Mixes - https://soundcloud.com/lexonthedecks/sets/hot-girls-the-mixes

Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0M8WInsGc6kYGht82WXPgz

Insta - @LexOnTheDecks

Twitter - @LexOnTheDecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Timing, Labels, the Producer x Artist Relationship, and Evolution, with Rapper Jelani Blackman

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 06:02:59 GMT

Hot Girls: Intimate and Entertaining Conversations about Creativity and the Music Industry

This week Lex chats to Jelani Blackman. Having spent years creating music for fun with friends, Jelani's musical journey changed almost overnight, when Noisy (Vice) shared an early track he created. From there he was signed to a record label in LA and had a few years releasing EPs, working to establish really what sound was authentic and right for him. This year he's released multiple singles, inc. P2P with Big Zuu, featured on Fire in the Booth, amassed over a million streams on his Colours x Studio performance, and is just getting started...

Head over to YouTube to see the videos for Colours, Nobody's Son, and check out new single "Foolish" on all streaming platforms now.

Jelani Handles

Insta: @jelaniblackman

Twitter: @Jelani_Blackman

Lex Handles:

Twitter: @lexonthedecks

Instagram: @lexonthedecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What Erykah Badu Taught Me About Soul

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 09:51:49 GMT

Hello and welcome to Hot Girls with me Lex on the decks. Today, I’m going to be exploring the life, approach, and work of a woman with more soul than a saxophone. Someone who has had a huge impact on music and culture, not just from her own releases but also from her approach to creativity, to artistic freedom, and also to the influence she’s had on some of the most notable people in music. She’s a woman who’s transcended genres from hip-hop, to blues and funk. The mother of neo soul, a genre she says she’s fine making but doesn’t like it’s name. A woman of the Earth and a woman for many ears and years.

This week I’m bringing you a lesson in soul, taught by Erykah Badu.

Hot Girls Handles:

Mixes - https://soundcloud.com/lexonthedecks/sets/hot-girls-the-mixes

Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0M8WInsGc6kYGht82WXPgz

Insta - @LexOnTheDecks

Twitter - @LexOnTheDecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Creative Entrepreneurship and Founding a Zine, with Michelle Hung

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 13:36:05 GMT

This week, Lex chats to Michelle Hung. Michelle has a background in film and photographic production and worked at brands including ASOS and Urban Outfitters. She founded Eden Zine after witnessing the ambition in her son to be successful but having a slightly warped perspective of what it takes to get there. Hers is an honest account of working it out as you go along when starting a new creative venture.

Michelle Handles

@michelle.hung_studio

@eden.zine

Lex Handles:

Twitter: @lexonthedecks

Instagram: @lexonthedecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What Megan Thee Stallion Taught Me About Pursuit

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 09:19:40 GMT

I’ve decided this week to look at a woman who is relatively new to the game but has achieved a hell of a lot in a short space of time. She’s someone I believe to be really culturally important and someone I really want all women to be cheering on. I think she could really be as big as the biggest. I’m talking Beyoncé big, Nicki Minaj big, Cardi B big. And I think those women agree because they’ve all collaborated with her.

That woman is of course Megan the stallion.

Hot Girls Handles:

Mixes - https://soundcloud.com/lexonthedecks/sets/hot-girls-the-mixes

Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0M8WInsGc6kYGht82WXPgz

Insta - @LexOnTheDecks

Twitter - @LexOnTheDecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Femininity, Creativity, and Sexuality, with Singer Song-writer Olivia Louise

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 06:17:48 GMT

This week Lex is joined by singer-songwriter, Olivia Louise. Olivia shares with Lex her experiences as an artist and the major contrasts that can create in your life. She talks about one weekend where she went from song-writing with Craig David, to mopping floors where she worked at the time.

The pair also talk about how being female can impact you in male dominated environments and different creative mechanics to work around this.

Olivia Louise Social Handles:

Twitter: @Olivia_LouiseUK

Instagram: @olivialouiseuk

Lex Handles:

Twitter: @lexonthedecks

Instagram: @lexonthedecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What Janelle Monae Taught Me About Identity

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 18:20:49 GMT

This week, I'm looking at Janelle Monae.

An artist of incredible versatility and passion. An individual who experiments with different sounds and instruments, on an endless pursuit of quality and polished art.

The thing I adore about Janelle Monae is how directional she is. She knows exactly the kind of artist she wants to be and more than that she knows exactly the type of person she wants to be. I read a quote in one of life coach Tony Robbins books some time ago now in which he spoke about his decision to only work with and be with the best in every field. I think Janelle is similar in the way she’s pursued influences, she talks about Prince, about Stevie Wonder, about Lauryn Hill. artists who crafted not only their music, but their visuals, their performances. It’s an almost obsessive perfectionist approach to art which is necessary if you want a certain status in the creative world.

This is a lesson in identity. As taught by Janelle Monae.

Hot Girls Handles:

Mixes - https://soundcloud.com/lexonthedecks/sets/hot-girls-the-mixes

Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0M8WInsGc6kYGht82WXPgz

Insta - @LexOnTheDecks

Twitter - @LexOnTheDecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Live Music, Social Media and Women in Music, with Alexandra Ampofo

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 06:47:39 GMT

This week Lex is joined by the very lovely Alexandra Ampofo. Someone who has multiple successful endeavours in the music industry. She is the founder of Acoustic Live, a life music event organiser for which she worked closely with Boxpark. She is also one of the founders of Women Connect, an organisation bringing together women from Sony Music and Live Nation to connect and help each other accelerate through the industry. And she also works for Metropolis music, as a promoter, for which she's seen an interesting year!

Enjoy, and don't forget to subscribe to not miss an episode.

Alex Handles

Twitter: @planetAlex_

Instagram: @planetAlex

Lex Handles:

Insta/Twitter: @lexonthedecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What Mary J Blige Taught Me About Ambition

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 06:28:22 GMT

This week I’m taking a look at one of the most powerful voices of our generation. An artist whose released multiple platinum selling albums, and won five Grammys.

I decided to explore Mary J Blige's career after seeing her crop up in the videos of Lil Kim and Missy. I thought I’d be writing about the influence of those relationships and the importance of sisterhood. However, while that definitely is a part of her story and character, when I dug into her journey there was a different narrative which came through more poignantly.

This is a lesson in ambition, as taught by Mary J Blige.

Hot Girls Handles:

Mixes - https://soundcloud.com/lexonthedecks/sets/hot-girls-the-mixes

Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0M8WInsGc6kYGht82WXPgz

Insta - @LexOnTheDecks

Twitter - @LexOnTheDecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Coming of Age, Michael Jackson and Jamaica, with Jords

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 06:01:24 GMT

Rapper Jords is at an exciting point in his career having just released his first album under a label having previously been independent. We talk about his journey as a musician, from making bedroom beats with his brother to a million streams. Jords also chats us through the strong women who have had an influence on his life, and some of his favourite artists from Chronixx, to Wretch 32, to Destiny's Child.

Enjoy!

Intro track: Swing - Jords

Jords Handles:

Insta/Twitter: @jordsonline

Spotify/Youtube: Jords (Almost an Adult)

Lex Handles:

Insta/Twitter: @lexonthedecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What Sister Rosetta Tharpe Taught Me About Fame

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 05:48:48 GMT

This week, I’m slipping out of the rap world a bit to shine a Spotlight on a musical talent it’s almost impossible to categorise. If you have to Rock 'n' Roll is where she’d fall but as a Black Women performing in the 40s in glamorous outfits you’d sooner expect from a soul performer she doesn’t slot into the bracket we’ve created for Rock and Roll. It’s this exact reason I wanted to spotlight on her today. Because many women like Sister Rosetta Tharpe have been written out of history books and give us a warped perspective on the development of sounds. And I think it’s up to all of us working and exploring music to make sure we’re learning and sharing the stories of these people so a more accurate picture gets passed down.

So sit back, relax and enjoy this exploration of the life and work of Sister Rosetta Tharpe.

Hot Girls Handles:

Mixes - https://soundcloud.com/lexonthedecks/sets/hot-girls-the-mixes

Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0M8WInsGc6kYGht82WXPgz

Insta - @LexOnTheDecks

Twitter - @LexOnTheDecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jazz, Intuition and Radio with Worldwide FM's Laani

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 08:45:26 GMT

This week I'm joined by the wonderful Laani. DJ and host of the Fulljoy experience, Laani discovered her pull to the music industry through a DJ course with Bristol's female led 'Mix Nights'. She suddenly realised she was in the wrong industry and found her way, through much tenacity and fearlessness, as a tour DJ with Die Antwood and part of the team at Giles Peterson's Brownswood Recordings.

Enjoy this joyous and open conversation and take a listen to some of the artists mentioned when you're done!

Laani Handles:

Insta: @alannah3nry

Show: The Fulljoy Experience on Worldwide FM

Host Handles:

Insta / Twitter: @lexonthedecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What Cardi B Taught Me About Memes

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 06:54:47 GMT

This week I take a look at the Queen of Social Media. An incomparable sensation and rap icon who has had an incredibly quick rise to success and who continues to smash expectations over what she can and will achieve. When she had her first number 1 with Bodak Yellow, she became the first female rapper to top the Billboard chart since Lauryn Hill. At that time, 1xtra presenter Dotty said, “I’m not saying this should be anyone’s life plan but stripper turned reality star turned No 1 artist is today’s American dream”.

Now at the top again with WAP, this episode is a lesson in Memes, by Cardi B.

Hot Girls Handles:

Mixes - https://soundcloud.com/lexonthedecks/sets/hot-girls-the-mixes

Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0M8WInsGc6kYGht82WXPgz

Insta - @LexOnTheDecks

Twitter - @LexOnTheDecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rap, Busking, and Signing to High Focus, with TrueMendous

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 06:50:57 GMT

From Myspace, to the streets of Birmingham, to Atlanta and then to London, TrueMendous has already had a really interesting career. Now this year, she announced signing to High Focus Records, the record label that brought us Rag'n'Bone man and the Four Owls.

The talented lyricist has been putting out music and videos for a few years, growing her performance ability and resilience working as a busker. Now transitioning to being a signed artist, she released her EP HUH? in March and is set to release her first album later this year.

We chat to True about what inspires her, what she needs to feel good as an artist, the lessons Busking taught her, and that relationship and process to working with High Focus.

Fascinating insight to a big moment in the career of a previously independent artist.

TrueMendous Handles:

Insta / Twitter: @itstruemendous

High Focus Records:

Insta: @highfocusrecords

Host Handles:

Insta / Twitter: @lexonthedecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What Teena Marie (Lady T) taught me about Faith

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 07:51:27 GMT

Teena Marie is an artist who released 14 studio albums over a professional musical career spanning 25years. Often described as the “Ivory Queen of Soul”, she’s since been sampled by artists including Ciara, Mobb deep, The Fugees, Jadakiss and Nicki Minaj.

Her faith guided her through many of life trials and tribulations. This is an exploration of her musical life and how faith played it's role.

Hot Girls Handles:

Mixes - https://soundcloud.com/lexonthedecks/sets/hot-girls-the-mixes

Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0M8WInsGc6kYGht82WXPgz

Insta - @LexOnTheDecks

Twitter - @LexOnTheDecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Resilience, Relationships and MTV with Jasmine Dotiwala

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 09:19:20 GMT

From the rise of Destiny's child, to the career of Mariah, to the evolution of UK Black music from the Underground into the mainstream, Jasmine Dotiwala has seen it all. She started her career as a runner, before being thrust into the spotlight as a Presenter for Channel 4's "The Word". After The Word got axed for too many audience complaints, she went to join the team at MTV as an MTV News Presenter. Her long and exciting journey at MTV included being Head of Production for MTV Base. Since that role she's worked at Channel 4 and the BBC, and is currently working to get more young people into media, through her role at the Media Trust.

This Interview is a must listen for anyone wanting to further their career in music, media or entertainment!

Jasmine Handles:

Insta / Twitter: @jasminedotiwala

Host Handles:

Insta / Twitter: @lexonthedecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Season Two - Trailer

Sat, 18 Jul 2020 07:33:18 GMT

HOT GIRLS is a new female focused, music centred conversation pulling back the curtain on the tenacity required to forge a career in the creative industries, and the resilience necessitated to stay there.

Examining the intersection of music & contemporary culture HOT GIRLS is a chronicle of the fighters, the divas & the dreamers.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hot Girls: Spoken Word, Management and Unconventional Paths with Selina Hannaford, founder of Luna Legacy

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 07:30:18 GMT

This week, Lex was joined by Selina Hannaford (Luna Lisabet), a spoken-word artist, photographer, and the founder of creative platform and management agency, Luna Legacy. Selina has had a fascinating career journey, really finding her passion and tribe after some personal battles. We spoke about her influences growing up, the role of the manager and how to create and manage events against the challenges of London night life.

Artists Mentioned:

KDotMelody, Fela Mi, Maverick Quest, Kendrick Lemar, Shocka, D Double E, FKJ, Masego, J Cole, Subten, Elliott Yorke (Ebow), Nas, B.I.G., Common, Talib Kweli, Pharrell, Snoop Dogg, Jagged Edge, Dave, Kojey radical, George The Poet, Ghetts

Luna Handles:

IG: @lunalisabet / @wearelunalegacy

Twitter: @wearelunalegacy

Host Handles:

Insta / Twitter / Soundcloud: @LexOnTheDecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hot Girl History: Ms Dynamite ft. Akala

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 07:44:42 GMT

For the penultimate episode of Season 1 I wanted to bring it closer to home and look at one of the only female MCs to have sat at the top of the UK charts. It sounds like an exaggerated statement, but it isn’t. That woman is Ms Dynamite and her voice was one of the defining sounds of early millennium music. She’s a brilliant blend of grime and dub basslines with really smart lyrics and has been the winner of a mercury music prize, mobo awards and brit awards. She’s also the older sister to Akala who also started his career as a rapper but went on to write the novel “Natives”; a fascinating book which challenges the British squeamishness about it’s class and race issues, both his experiences of them and also the history as to how we’ve got to the oppressive place we’re in today. I was interested to know what background and education Ms Dynamite had had, particularly knowing that these two very successful individuals grew up together - what lessons on success did they learn which we can listen to.

As always, this isn’t just a biography, but we’re looking at the decisions she made in her career and challenges, to get to where she has.

Hot Girls Handles:

Mixes - https://soundcloud.com/lexonthedecks/sets/hot-girls-the-mixes

Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0M8WInsGc6kYGht82WXPgz

Insta - @LexOnTheDecks

Twitter - @LexOnTheDecks

Tiktok - @LexOnTheDecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hot Girls: Unity, Imposter Syndrome, Brit School and Blossoming with DJ and Music Producer Melle Brown

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 05:32:53 GMT

This week I'm joined by the super talented Producer and DJ, Melle Brown. Having done a taster course in music production when she was 14, Melle became comfortable with Logic early on, releasing her first EP Blossom as her dissertation project. Having met label owner and Radio DJ Jamz Supernova at a Soho House event, Melle ended up releasing her second EP "Intersection" on her label Future Bounce. It's house at its centre but with soul infusions. As a DJ she's played for the likes of Gorrilaz, Little Simz, Lovebox Festival, AFROPUNK & more.

Melle and I chat about her life, from stage school to radio, to DJ booths and the family that's supported her through it all.

Artists mentioned:

Omar, Oli Hannaford, Jazz Supernova, Tiana Major9, LayFullStop, Blue Canarino, Goldlink, Emmavie, Digital Mozart, Blue Lab Beats, KG, High Class Filter, Intalekt

Melle Handles:

IG: @melle.brown

Twitter: @melle_brown

SC / Spotify / Apple: Melle Brown

Host Handles:

Insta / Twitter / Soundcloud: @LexOnTheDecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hot Girl History: Sade Adu

Thu, 11 Jun 2020 05:55:24 GMT

This week we are going to be exploring the life of the soulful, seductive, romantic and mysterious Sade. One of the most successful solo female artists in the history of British music, Sade’s iconic sound blended elements of jazz, soul and funk to create a timeless sound which has been lusted after by listeners for decades. In fact, she has released a successful album in every decade since her initial 3-hit series in the 80s. One of the amazing things about Sade was that she achieved an incredible amount of success without being an active figure in the media.

As always, this isn’t just a biography, but we’re looking at the decisions she made in her career and challenges, to get to where she has.

Hot Girls Handles:

Mixes - https://soundcloud.com/lexonthedecks/sets/hot-girls-the-mixes

Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0M8WInsGc6kYGht82WXPgz

Insta - @LexOnTheDecks

Twitter - @LexOnTheDecks

Tiktok - @LexOnTheDecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hot Girls: Songwriting, Soul and Multi-tasking with Artist and DJ, Bklava

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 05:44:28 GMT

This week Lex is joined by Bklava. A multi-talented artist and DJ from London who's singles are distinctive for their fresh, restrained take on Garage. Known for singing and DJing at the same time, Bklava also co-founded the female and non-binary DJ platform Spin Suga, which has a radio show on Brighton station Platform B, as well as hosting DJ workshops and panel talks. Bklava also did a mix which you can listen to on the Hot Girls mix series on Soundcloud.

Songs Played:

Bklava - Got it Good

Bklava - Through the Night

Artists Mentioned:

Wookie, Aretha Franklin, Amy Winehouse, Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Rosalia, Yaeji, AMA

Guest Handles:

FB: /bklavadj

Insta: @Bklava

Soundcloud: /Bklava

Host Handles:

Insta / Twitter / Soundcloud: @LexOnTheDecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Extra: The Cultural Importance of Megan Thee Stallion's "Savage"

Sun, 31 May 2020 17:34:05 GMT

This episode explores the success of a song by a phenomenal black woman, remixed by another phenomenal black woman. Exploring: the context of women being a minority in rap, the legal battle she had to go through to get her record out, and the way she used TikTok to secure the success of the song.

On the 13th May, for the first time ever, four black women occupied the top two spots on the US Billboard Chart. On the 25th May an innocent black man was murdered forcing us to face up to how deep and systemic racism is in the world today. I don’t want to be another person happily taking the gifts black people have given the world and not also taking action against their oppression. Things we can all do:

Write a letter to your local MP/Councillor/Lord, people in Government asking for a public response and a plan to address this by further examining diversity in parliament, and more research into whether the disproportionate impact of Covid-19 on BAME individuals could have been prevented or mitigated. Email me if you would like a draft - info@lexonthedecks.com
Email your company's HR Department asking for details of diversity in your workplace. Is it good enough?
Donate to one of the groups financing protestors and charities. Consider pledging a regular donation or setting a reminder in your calendar to check up on donations - this won’t be fixed overnight with the prosecution of a handful of police officers.
Educate yourself on racism and be open minded to prejudices you may unintentionally be holding.

Remember that we all touch different circles and different people so every voice has an impact.

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Hot Girl History: Gwen Stefani

Wed, 27 May 2020 05:29:04 GMT

This week, I explore the life and legacy of American artist, Gwen Stefani. I’ve chosen Gwen, because both through her solo releases and work with No Doubt she’s been heavily influenced by Jamaican music and you wouldn’t necessarily know that immediately when thinking about her music. She's released just shy of 10 albums, which is remarkable, defying agism and showing her resilience. I found it particularly fascinating how her personal and her professional life have interwoven. It’s an interesting story so I hope you enjoy.

Gwen Stefani Handles:

Twitter: @GwenStefani

Insta: @gwenstefani

Hot Girls Handles:

Mixes - https://soundcloud.com/lexonthedecks/sets/hot-girls-the-mixes

Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0M8WInsGc6kYGht82WXPgz

Insta - @LexOnTheDecks

Twitter - @LexOnTheDecks

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Hot Girls: Touring, Jazz, and Studio Sessions with JP Cooper and Stormzy, with Hannah V

Tue, 19 May 2020 13:52:47 GMT

This week I'm joined (via Zoom!) by Music Producer, Hannah V. After being classically trained as a Jazz Pianist, Hannah began working as a session musician, performing with artists including Rhianna, Eminem, Jessie J and Anastasia. After deciding she wanted to stay in one place for a bit, she began work as a professional producer for Sony. She's released music under her own name but she's also worked closely with artists including JP Cooper, Pepper Rose, and many upcoming Drill artists. We talk about her evolution and the importance of women in music being more visible.

Artists named:

JP Cooper, Pepper Rose, Stormzy, Pitbull, Rihanna, Eminem, Lalah Hathaway, Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Herbie Hancock, Lil Wayne, Kendrick Lamar, Aretha Franklin, Mac Miller, Kanye West, Swindle, Cadenza, Steel Banglez, Toddla T, Ghosty, HER, Jhene Aiko, Mary J Blige, Frank Ocean, Childish Gambino

Guest Handles:

Insta: @hannahvofficial

Twitter: @HannahV

Host Handles:

Insta / Twitter / Soundcloud: @LexontheDecks

info@lexonthedecks.com

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Hot Girl History: Lil Kim

Wed, 06 May 2020 06:25:20 GMT

With three back to back Platinum selling albums, Lil Kim is one of the few females in rap who's legacy is rarely questioned. In this episode we take a look at how a 17 year old Kimberley Jones went from living on the streets of Brooklyn, to being one of the biggest selling artists in the world. From her creative partnership with B.I.G, to her time in jail, to where she's at now.

As always, this isn’t just a biography, but we’re looking at the decisions she made in her career and challenges, to get to where she has.

Lil Kim Handles:

Twitter: @LilKim

Insta: @lilkimthequeenbee

Hot Girls Handles:

Mixes - https://soundcloud.com/lexonthedecks/sets/hot-girls-the-mixes

Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0M8WInsGc6kYGht82WXPgz

Insta - @LexOnTheDecks

Twitter - @LexOnTheDecks

Tiktok - @LexOnTheDecks

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Hot Girls: Digital Radio, Playlisting and the Hyperman set with Shireen

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 05:55:28 GMT

This week, Lex is joined by Shireen Ramezani, to talk about the process of breaking artists. Shireen started her career as a producer on London's Radar Radio, before heading label side to UMG. While there she was responsible for playlist creation and development, as well as working on Spinnup which was Universal's platform for emerging artists. She has recently joined the editorial team at Resident Advisor where she will continue her work elevating female talent in the industry.

Artists named:

Scratcha DVA, IKONIKA, Manara, Bok Bok, AJ Tracey, Sicaria Sound, Big Zuu, Master Peace, London On da Track, J-Hus, Jorja Smith, Shaybo, Impey, Yazzus, 6 Figure Gang, Meg Thee Stallion, Princess Nokia, JunglePussy, Sherelle, Naina, Lucy (LCY), Club Yeke, Tash LC, Jamz Supernova, MIC, Ghostnotes, IMAN, KG

Guest Handles:

Insta / Twitter / Soundcloud: @TailorJae

Host Handles:

Insta / Twitter / Soundcloud: @LexontheDecks

info@lexonthedecks.com

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Hot Girl History: M.I.A (Maya Matangi)

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 05:28:06 GMT

This week, we shine the Spotlight on M.I.A. A Tamil rapper who has led a remarkable life. From her early experiences on tour with Brit Pop group, Elastica, to her work with Diplo, Paper Planes and her complex relationship with the world's media. Learn about MIA and you will start to understand how important it is to know yourself and be comfortable with exactly who you are. She is now back making music, sharing her journey on Patreon.

As always, this isn’t just a biography, but we’re looking at the decisions she made in her career and challenges, to get to where she has.

M.I.A. Handles:

Twitter: @MIAuniverse

Insta: @miamatangi

Hot Girls Handles:

Mixes - https://soundcloud.com/lexonthedecks/sets/hot-girls-the-mixes

Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0M8WInsGc6kYGht82WXPgz

Insta - @LexOnTheDecks

Twitter - @LexOnTheDecks

Tiktok - @LexOnTheDecks

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Hot Girls: Skills, Confidence, Bass and iPods with Tailor Jae

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 05:03:43 GMT

This week, Lex is joined by Tailor Jae. A bass DJ, who’s been making waves for a few years, since being crowned Mixmag and Coors Light DJ Quest Winner back in 2017. Since then, she’s shared the stage with some pretty big names in music including Peggy Gou, Swindle and Jaguar Skills.You may have heard her sets on Rinse FM, Reprezent, out with Keep Hush, or in the infamous Mixmag Lab.

Artists Mentioned:

Melle Brown, Jamz Supernova, LR Groove, KG, El-B, LCY, Calvin Harris, Traces, 6 Figure Gang, Shirelle, Jossy Mitsu, Horsepower Productions, Ronnie Loko, Skelekta, Jetsss, Keep Hush, Hiplife, Highlife

Guest Handles:

IG / Twitter / Soundcloud: @TailorJae

Host Handles:

@lexonthedecks

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Hot Girl History: Missy Elliott

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 06:38:53 GMT

An exploration of the life and musical legacy of a true icon! Not only a remarkable musical artist but also a remarkable visual artist and an incredible producer. Missy really encompasses every trait that can make someone great. This episode looks at her life and discography to see how Melissa became Missy Misdemeanor Elliott.

As always, this isn’t just a biography, but we’re looking at the decisions she made in her career and challenges, to get to where she has.

Missy Elliott Handles:

Twitter: @MissyElliott

Insta: @missymisdemeanorelliott

Hot Girls Handles:

Mixes - https://soundcloud.com/lexonthedecks/sets/hot-girls-the-mixes

Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0M8WInsGc6kYGht82WXPgz

Insta - @LexOnTheDecks

Twitter - @LexOnTheDecks

Tiktok - @LexOnTheDecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hot Girls: DMs, Counting your wins and Collaboration, with Drewmula

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 06:45:17 GMT

This week Lex is joined by Drewmula. A hot boy. Drewmula is an artist from South London who’s music is best described as a fusion of Afrobeats and RnB. He first caught people’s attention a couple of years ago when he released his first single as a solo artist, Purple Clouds and has seen a steady rise and growth since then. His new single 'Wanting' has recently been released, he’s got an EP dropping this year and signed to MN2S in November last year.

Artists Mentioned:

Darkoo, Meek Mill, Jae5, Afro B, Kojo Funds, Junior, Ms Banks, Brent Faiyez, Nadia Rose, Pop Smoke, IAMDDB

Music Played:

No Palava - Drewmula

Wanting - Drewmula

Handles:

@drewmula

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Hot Girls: Goals, identity and protecting the creative process, with Bamz

Thu, 12 Mar 2020 07:00:26 GMT

This week Lex is joined by the amazing Bamz. A producer, songwriter and DJ who is as open as she is humble and is on a journey towards greatness.

Artists Mentioned:

Bamz, Nadia Rose, Rico Nasty, Megan Thee Stallion, Lauryn Hill, Paramore, Teedra Moses, Jamilah Barry, Kaytranda, Tiana Major9, Black Coffee, Black Motion, Missy Elliott, Yebba, Robert Glasper, Princess Nyah, Katy B, Ms Dynamite

Music Played:

Bamz - Raining Season

Bamz - Bam’Day

Bamz v. Mis Teeq - Scandalous Rmx

Handles:

Facebook: facebook.com/bamzgotbangers

Instagram: @bamz.dmg

Twitter: @AtBamz

Soundcloud: @AtBamz

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Hot Girl History: Spice

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 12:07:21 GMT

This week I’m going to be delving into the back catalogue of the Queen of Dancehall; Spice. An icon of that genre of music and an all round inspirational person.

As always, this isn’t just a biography, but we’re looking at the decisions she made in her career and challenges, to get to where she has.

Spice Handles:

IG and Twitter: @spiceofficial

Hot Girls Handles:

Mixes - https://soundcloud.com/lexonthedecks/sets/hot-girls-the-mixes

Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0M8WInsGc6kYGht82WXPgz

Insta - @LexOnTheDecks

Twitter - @LexOnTheDecks

Tiktok - @LexOnTheDecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hot Girls: Presenting and promotion, with Khadejia

Thu, 05 Mar 2020 07:58:41 GMT

This week Lex is joined by DJ and Presenter, Khadejia, to talk about her favourite artists, tour, playing the bangers and self-promotion.

Artists Mentioned:

J Lo, Stefflon Don, Ms Banks, Beyonce, Rihanna, Koffee, Spice, Meg Thee Stallion, Cardi B, Iggy Azelea, Nicki Minaj, Remy Ma, Lil Kim, Missy Elliot, Section Boyz, Youngs Teflon, Yungun, Chip, Roddy Rich, Gunna, Timbaland, Mase, Diddy, Yemi Alade, Lady Leshurr, Drake, JME, Lorraine (Loz), Little Simz, PA Salieu, Jay1

Guest Handles:

Insta - @khadejiag

Twitter - @khadejiag

Hot Girls Handles:

Mixes - https://soundcloud.com/lexonthedecks/sets/hot-girls-the-mixes

Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0M8WInsGc6kYGht82WXPgz

Insta - @LexOnTheDecks

Twitter - @LexOnTheDecks

Tiktok - @LexOnTheDecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hot Girl History: Tiwa Savage

Thu, 05 Mar 2020 07:57:59 GMT

In today’s episode we take a look at the woman often called the Queen of Afrobeats. An artist who signed her first record deal in 2009, was the first woman to win Best African Act at the MTV EMAs, an artist who, despite all her success recently said, “I see myself as a new artist again who is hustling. That’s my mentality, I don’t walk into a room expecting anyone to know who I am. I’m just here to get a seat at the table”. The most celebrated female artist from Africa, this episode we’re talking Tiwa Savage.

As always, this isn’t just a biography, but we’re looking at the decisions she made in her career and challenges, to get to where she has.

Hot Girls Handles:

Mixes - https://soundcloud.com/lexonthedecks/sets/hot-girls-the-mixes

Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0M8WInsGc6kYGht82WXPgz

Insta - @LexOnTheDecks

Twitter - @LexOnTheDecks

Tiktok - @LexOnTheDecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hot Girls: What Success Looks like, with Sophie Simone

Thu, 05 Mar 2020 07:57:36 GMT

This week Lex is joined by DJ Sophie Simone to chat about hot talent, foundation fm, writing and what it means to be successful.

Listen to Sophie's Mix:

https://soundcloud.com/lexonthedecks/hot-girls-sophie-simone-ft-rico-nasty-bbymutha-queen-key-princess-nokia-070-shake

Artists Mentioned:

Cardi B, Meg Thee Stallion, Glass Animals, Denzel Curry, The Weeknd, Justin Bieber, Maxo Kream, Ragz Original, Skepta, Rihanna, Nicki Minaj, Eminem, Queen Latifah, Salt n Pepa, Eve, Missy Elliott, Taio Cruz, Iggy Azelea, Stefflon Don, Desiigner, Mura Masa, J-Hus, Kanye West, Ms Banks, Little Simz, Kehlani, Maliibu Miitch, BbyMutha, DaniLeigh, Tierra Whack

Guest Handles:

Insta - @itsSophieSimone

Soundcloud - https://soundcloud.com/sophiemoriarty

Mixcloud - https://www.mixcloud.com/SophieMoriarty/

Hot Girls Handles:

Mixes - https://soundcloud.com/lexonthedecks/sets/hot-girls-the-mixes

Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0M8WInsGc6kYGht82WXPgz

Insta - @LexOnTheDecks

Twitter - @LexOnTheDecks

Tiktok - @LexOnTheDecks

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Hot Girl History: Nicki Minaj

Thu, 05 Mar 2020 07:55:42 GMT

The biggest selling female rapper of all time, the first female MC to perform at the Grammys, and the first to get a No.1 album in the UK. This is an exploration of Nicki's life and music, as we seek to understand what it is about her, not just as an artist but as a person, that took her so far. How, she managed to achieve the level of fame and critical acclaim that she has. If we want more women to compete with Nicki, to get to that level of success, she’s someone it would pay to learn from.

Hot Girls Handles:

Mixes - https://soundcloud.com/lexonthedecks/sets/hot-girls-the-mixes

Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0M8WInsGc6kYGht82WXPgz

Insta - @LexOnTheDecks

Twitter - @LexOnTheDecks

Tiktok - @LexOnTheDecks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Introducing: Hot Girls - The Podcast Trailer

Fri, 27 Dec 2019 10:16:47 GMT

For years, the worlds of Hip-hop, Dancehall, Rap and Afrobeats have been dominated by male artists.

Hot Girls is a 45minute long radio-style podcast, which celebrates female Urban artists, both established and up and coming.

The Podcast will include guest mixes by DJs, conversations with extra special guests in the industry on the topics of success and personal fulfilment, and some of their favourite artists.

NB. Clips used in this trailer were not owned or recorded by anyone associated with this Podcast.

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