FAST 10: Sophie McAlister
Photo by Natalie Jurjens
10 questions with the Crown Ruler affiliate…
To describe Sophie McAlister’s output in just a handful of genres is to do Sophie’s craft a great disservice. She’s a purveyor of all the styles that lift your spirits and nourish your soul - from funk, to soul, disco, RnB, hip-hop, electronic, dub, IDM, and downtempo. If you ask Sophie to describe her style herself, (refer to question 1), she’ll tell you she does it all. For this reason and many more, she’s considered a treasure amongst the local scene.
A member of Melbourne’s Crown Ruler family, Sophie has close ties to the team at Rhythm Section Intl, as well as being a regular feature on Skylab Radio. Contributing to mix series for Planet Trip Records, For Home Use Only, PBS and Body Promise, her peak season of gigs features the complete Melbourne circuit from Whitehart, Dr Morse and Bodriggy, to Sub Club, Radar, The Gasometer and the Sidney Myer Music Bowl.
Despite her extensive list of career achievements, anyone who’s witnessed a set from Sophie IRL will know there’s a certain magic to her curation that sets her apart. The few times I’ve seen Sophie McAlister bopping around effervescently behind the turntables, fluidly jumping genres and styles with ease, and a smile plastered on her face, it’s quickly made apparent why she stands out. To ease your lockdown woes, enjoy any one of her vibrant and uplifting mixes, and read on as she joins us for the next instalment of Fast 10.
THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE MY MUSIC:
All the things.
2. A FEMALE ARTIST EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW:
EMELYNE. Certified bass freak with an arsenal of bunsens that’ll make you stank face for hours on end.
3. A TRACK I’M EMBARRASSED TO LOVE:
Never shame your pleasures!!! I grew up in Laos and would sneak into clubs when I was 16. Akon was on high rotation during this time and I still hold him dear to my heart.
4. THE LOCAL INDUSTRY NEEDS MORE:
Dance floors at 100% capacity.
5. MY DRINK OF CHOICE AT A GIG:
Scotch on the rocks.
6. WHAT EMPOWERS ME:
Hmm, hard question to ask during despondent times. At the moment I think it’s ok to feel uninspired during this unwelcomed lull. There will be new things to look forward to when it’s all over. Just keep on keeping on!
7. THE BEST GIG I’VE EVER PLAYED:
B2B with Lori at the Rhythm Section bushfire fundraiser party. SHUTDOWN.
8. IF I WASN’T IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY, I WOULD BE…
Finishing my degree or working as a crew member on a slick boat in the carribean.
9. SOMEONE I LOOK UP TO IS:
DJ JNETT no doubt. 25+ years in the game, navigating a male-dominated industry and holding it down with unmatched grace and an ever-growing appreciation for music and her craft. She is the REAL DEAL. A true music lover and boss bitch.
10. THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE I’VE EVER RECEIVED:
Don’t send yourself flowers.