In celebration of Black History Month, Atwood Magazine has invited artists to contribute essays that explore themes of identity, music, culture, inclusion, and more.
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Fresh off her recent release with Rules Don’t Apply last month, DJ Minx, a trailblazer in Detroit’s electronic music landscape and the founder of Women on Wax, reflects on her experiences as a Black woman in the dance music realm, the transformation of the city's club culture, and the significance of community. She also provides a guide to prominent Black, queer, and femme brands that are currently influencing the industry, as part of Atwood Magazine’s Black History Month series!
A prominent figure in Detroit’s electronic music scene since the early '90s alongside her peers Carl Craig and Kevin Saunderson, Minx has opened doors for countless artists—establishing the female record label and collective Women on Wax, curating the renowned House Your Life stage at the Movement Festival, and being recognized by Mixmag as one of the “20 Women Who Shaped The History of Dance Music.”
After coming out as a lesbian in 2021, she became a powerful role model as an African American queer icon in Detroit and dance music culture, with her mural dedicated to the city’s queer community on the Ruth Ellis Center.
Recently, DJ Minx dropped the single “Blocked” on February 14th through Walker & Royce’s Rules Don’t Apply Records—a bold and unapologetic house track that shifts the narrative around Valentine’s Day. The straightforward single showcases her hallmark mix of deep, funky house combined with Detroit's gritty edge—featuring rolling basslines and sharp vocal elements that eliminate any chance for toxicity.
Read her essay for Black History Month below, and listen to “Blocked” on your preferred music streaming platform!
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by DJ Minx
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I began spinning records in 1989, inspired by Detroit’s Music Institute.
Several legends from Detroit aided in refining my sound. I will always be thankful to K-HAND, known as Detroit’s “First Lady,” who blazed a trail for myself and future generations as a Black woman who confidently embraced her identity. For those unfamiliar, she was a staple on Detroit’s dance music show, The Scene, and became somewhat of a legend in the city. She forged her own path with a sound that was distinctively Detroit. Many of us owe her a great debt, and we remember her every day.
I started gaining airtime on “Deep Space Radio,” an electronic music program on Detroit’s WGPR radio station, and hosted “Steamy Windows” at the University of Canada on CJAM 91.5 FM. During this period, I became a resident DJ at Club Motor in Hamtramck, where Laura Gavoor, who managed many of Detroit's prominent artists, oversaw bookings. She was a powerful influence, helping to solidify Motor's place in dance music history.
In December 1996, I felt that women deserved their own platform to exhibit their talents, leading me to establish Women on Wax, a collective of female DJs from the Metro Detroit area. I utilized W.O.W. to collaborate with promoters and artists from various backgrounds to create opportunities for female DJs and vocalists. With Moodymann's support, I launched Women On Wax Recordings. WOW is my record label, allowing me to express my sound and vision while uplifting artists I admire—especially Black, queer, and female-identifying individuals. The label helps me remain connected to my roots.
In 2000, I performed at the inaugural Movement (DEMF) in Detroit. Back then, it was a free event that united people from all over the city. Individuals from diverse backgrounds were present, living, moving, and embodying freedom—dancing until the sun set. It was a truly beautiful sight. Paxahau, who later took over the production of the internationally recognized festival, always supported me from the start. Today, I am proud to host my own stage, House Your Life, where I highlight Black, queer, female talent and other wonderful beings from around the world. I plan to take the event outside of Detroit for the first time this year, so stay tuned for updates.
Here’s a list of my favorite brands owned by Black, queer, femmes, etc.:
Favorite Vegan Snack – Partake Chocolate Chip Cookies.
I always keep a box handy for snack breaks during my studio sessions and like to tuck a pack in my bag for long flights.
Favorite tea – PLENTEA
After a night of playing, I need a calming sip of tea before resting. I just discovered this Black-owned tea shop during my visit to Montreal. I enjoy green tea with a bit of mint and lemon. After DJing, I need to replenish my Vitamin C—boom!
Favorite clothing brand –
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DJ Minx, a trailblazer in Detroit’s electronic music community and the founder of Women on Wax, looks back on her experiences as a Black woman in the dance music world, the transformation of the city’s nightlife culture, and the importance of community. Additionally, she provides insights into Black, queer, and femme brands that are influencing the industry today for Atwood Magazine's Black History Month series!