Without the contributions of women and femme innovators throughout the years, dance music, in its contemporary form, simply wouldn't exist; they have been integral as tastemakers, DJs, producers, and sound engineers. However, their journeys have not been without obstacles.
In honor of International Women’s Day, CLASH and AlphaTheta have come together to highlight mothers in music, showcasing their stories as they seek to foster conversations about club culture.
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No one conveys evocative sensuality quite like System Olympia. Since her debut in 2019, this London-based artist has created powerful works that blend retro-inspired club music with ambient soul, offering a Dionysian experience for night owls.
At the start of her DJ career, System Olympia’s passion for niche electronics clashed with the dominant club sounds in Italy, which were often shallow and sexist. Since then, her work has delved into romanticism in all its forms, with sex-positive anthems that emphasize the desire for affirmation and fulfillment.
Her releases carry nostalgic qualities, shimmering with themes of sensuality, pride, and longing. Beyond her music, System Olympia hosts a monthly residency on NTS radio and runs her own label, Okay Nature Records. She views motherhood, songwriting, and the business of music as closely related yet distinct pursuits, and this separation has enabled her to balance parenting with her prolific creativity.
To pursue her aspirations, System Olympia has relied on her community—particularly the women in her life—who provide a safety net for her son when obligations arise. “My mom is incredibly helpful whenever she’s in the same country; my son has a wonderful aunt, Akyere, an amazing Godmother, Alicia, and my lovely babysitters. He is surrounded by love from them, and I couldn’t have traveled for work as I have over the past few years without their support.”
With AlphaTheta noting an increase in registered female DJs, System Olympia candidly speaks about the challenges of juggling family life with touring and nightlife aspirations. “The hurdles include long absences from family, irregular schedules, no stable income, and often feeling worlds apart from other parents with typical jobs. This career isn’t for everyone, but not many are suited to the demands,” she acknowledges.
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As the finale of the Mothers In Music series, System Olympia presents an uplifting hour-long mix; an intimate collection of tracks that explore the often contrasting experiences of being a mother and a musician. Her mix spans avant-pop, quiet storm, boogie, psych-soul, sun-soaked carnival rhythms, and dark synthwave, serving as a tribute to modern motherhood.
Regarding her mix, System Olympia shares: “I’ve curated a collection of songs that loosely relate to the theme of motherhood in a way that resonates with me. It features a skit from Kill Bill, a feminist film about a mother doing anything for her daughter; a track from Drive, a film about a single mother finding love again; a few songs that capture the loneliness of motherhood and how our children can feel like a strong bond to past relationships; and a song I recorded one evening after an inspiring day at Kew Gardens with my mom.”
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In her conversation with CLASH, System Olympia reflects on how her work has always been an expression of feminine divinity, the misconceptions she has encountered as an electronic music producer, her relentless ambition, and the changes necessary to support women and mothers who DJ in late-night settings.
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Can you tell us about your origins and your early connection to music? Were you immersed in it, or did you seek it out creatively?
I didn’t have much exposure to music as a child. I recall one cassette tape from my home, and the songs on it had a profound effect on my emotions, which fascinated me. That feeling is what I still chase when listening to music today and what I strive to recreate in my own recordings.
Was there a specific artist who ignited your interest in music production?
Various artists have inspired me throughout different phases, but I distinctly remember purchasing a Prince Hits double CD. That’s when I started engaging with music from a producer's perspective.
As a DJ, curator, and tastemaker, how do you balance tailoring a mix for diverse audiences while also taking creative risks? What’s your approach?
I feel free to play anything I want. I trust my selections and let my inspiration lead me.
As a producer, your music is both sensory and evocative. What fuels your fascination with after-dark soundscapes?
I live my life sensorially and evocatively on a daily basis. This isn’t a marketing tactic for me; I don’t have mood boards. Over the past weekend, I traveled for twenty hours just to enjoy one passionate night in a hotel room with my boyfriend. Romantic soundscapes are where I feel most at home!
You released your ‘Sanctified’ EP last year. What are you most proud of about that project, nearly a year later?
I take pride in the
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Dance music, in its contemporary form, would not be able to exist without the contributions of women and femme innovators throughout the years; whether they’re