This week with DJ CITRA
DJ Citra seems to have popped up out of nowhere and is slaying it wherever she goes, spreading her fresh, uplifting sounds all over town. Below she tells us how she managed to get to where she is today.
Where are you from and how old are you?
I’m from Bali—born and raised here—and I’m 27.
Single or hooked up?
I’m taken.
How did you first get into electronic music? Like, was there a certain moment it all made sense?
Yes, totally. I still remember the first time my boyfriend played me a proper house set—it was like a light switch on. I didn’t really understand the music at first, but when I felt the energy and emotion in the beat… something clicked. That was the start of it all.
Who is your greatest influence in DJing or electronic music?
There are a few, but honestly, my early influence was from my boyfriend— And then I started digging deeper into artists like Awen, Keinemusik crew, and even some more underground names. I love DJs who can take you on a journey without needing to say a word.
What do you think makes electronic music so good?
It connects people in a different way. You don’t need lyrics to feel it—you just feel it in your body. It’s about mood, energy, freedom. It lets people express themselves and forget about everything for a while.
Do you produce music?
Not yet, but I’m learning! I want to start producing soon. I’ve been studying and slowly building my own sound. I’m excited to create something personal.
How long have you been a DJ and how would you describe your music you make or play?
I started DJing in 2017, but I’d say my real breakthrough came last year. And about my style, it depends on the vibe, but I lean to Afro house, melodic house, and a bit of organic house too. I like to read the crowd and play something that tells a story—not just a bunch of bangers.
What’s your favourite area in Bali to hang out (day-time)?
During the day, I love the beaches. I like quiet places where I can just chill and reset. Uluwatu is perfect for that—beautiful beach and peaceful.
What’s your favourite place in Bali at night (where you don’t work)?
Haha, to be honest, I don’t go out much when I’m not working. So I enjoy being in my zone— either home or somewhere calm, just listening to music or checking new tracks.
What do you do in your spare time? Any other interests?
I spend a lot of time listening to music, digging for new tracks. I also like being by myself—walk with my dog, have good food hahaha, play padel or just sitting near the ocean. That’s how I recharge.
Where are you a resident, or regular DJ?
Right now, I play at a few spots regularly: Cretya Ubud, Cretya Sunset, Disco Pizza Palace, Morabito Art Villa, Surya Cafe, Hatch, Ulu Cliffhouse, and Sundays Beach Club. I love the variety—they all have their own vibe.
And I just want to tell you something. As a local Balinese DJ, it hasn’t been an easy path to get to this level—especially in the electronic music scene. It’s a space that, for a long time, felt very international and sometimes hard to break into as a local. I had to prove myself again and again, not just with my skills, but with my style, consistency, and energy.
That’s why I’m deeply grateful to every venue that believed in me and gave me a chance to play. Their support means everything. Without them — without those first opportunities — I honestly wouldn’t be here today, doing what I love. This journey is not just mine… it’s also thanks to the people and places who trusted me and let me grow.
