A quick chat with Natalie Jane

DJ Natalie Jane has carved out a distinctive space in the Afro-house scene, blending bold melodies with dynamic builds to create a sound that’s unapologetically alive. Her latest release, Amanea, marks her debut on OVAVA Music and showcases her evolving production style—one that captures both the intense emotional depth and pulsating energy of Afro-house. With influences ranging from global icons like Black Coffee to rising stars like Amémé, Natalie Jane brings a raw, energetic authenticity to every set she plays. Whether she's igniting a beach party in Ibiza or delivering a powerful residency in London, her performances invite crowds to tap into their own freedom and expression, making her one of the most exciting and in-demand DJs of the moment. Amanea is just the beginning, with even more music and collaborations on the horizon for this promising artist. We caught up with her recently to learn more...

Congratulations on Amanea! Can you tell us about the inspiration behind the track and how it came to life?

I’d been really digging Afro house… both the emotional kind and the big bangers. I wanted to experiment with a more intense sound that really gets underneath you… and felt pulled towards creating a track that creates both anticipation and a sense of bold, unapologetic aliveness.

This release marks your debut on OVAVA Music. How did your connection with the label come about, and what made it the right home for this single?

Yes, I’m more than touched that Ollie fell in love with this track. I was surprised when he first played it on his radio show at Bloop… he’s a king with music and so to get into his top monthly selection was an honour. 

Ollie and I have always admired each other’s passion for music and supported each other in many ways, so to continue that with the release of Amanea is beautiful.

You’ve described Amanea as a track that ‘motivates, drives passion, liberates and ignites the spirit.’ What kind of energy or emotion were you hoping to capture?

Something dynamic and unapologetic. 

You’ve shared stages with some of the biggest names in Afro-house, like Black Coffee, &ME, and Themba. Have any of these artists influenced your sound or approach to DJing and production?

Definitely! I DJ’d a very low-key party in New York quite a few years ago… and the DJ on after me was Amémé. Funnily enough, his music has really inspired me over the years and this track particularly. I think he’s one of the biggest talents in Afro House right now.

Your performances have taken you all over the world—from Tulum to Bali, Istanbul to New York. How have these global experiences shaped you as an artist?

Wow, what a beautiful question. Yes, totally. These experiences have really given me insight into different crowds… different cultures and collections of dancing souls… which has made perfectly clear the type of artist I want to be. The most important thing for me as a DJ, is to give permission to the crowd to truly express themselves. To create an atmosphere where everything is allowed and freedom and playfulness is invited. Exploring internal journeys while you close your eyes and move… or exploring big feelings that the sounds provoke. We store up so much inside our magical bodies… and sometimes we really benefit from witness and expressing ourselves exactly as we need to. 

From large-scale events like Secret Brunch to your residencies at Home House and Luum in London, how do you tailor your sets for different crowds and settings?

Quite frankly, I don’t tailor things much. 

If I’m not connected to the music I’m playing, no-one wins - neither the crowd, nor me. Life is about living in the moment, passionately!!! I think most people connect to a DJ that is REALLY experiencing the joy and magic of life as they perform… and even if it isn’t their go-to playlist, the energy that is transferred when one is living passionately is life force energy! I think this is more powerful than playing a track that everyone knows so that they like you. 

I say, stay true to who you are… rather than changing too much for different crowds. 

How do you see the Afro-house scene evolving right now? Do you think it’s becoming more global, and where do you see yourself within it?

Can you walk us through a typical DJ set for you? Do you plan everything out, or do you go by feel and read the crowd?

I used to plan meticulously when I first started DJing… more so that I knew tracks would mix harmonically and the journey would be a really interesting one. 

Since becoming more experienced, I’ll still plan loosely but I like to have a huge bunch of new / favourite tracks in my list and have a few options with where I could go based on how hyped the crowd is getting.

This is just the start of your journey with OVAVA. Can we expect more music from you on the label in the near future?

That would be wonderful. I will definitely hope to send Ovava upcoming tracks I’ve produced for their consideration… and am excited to build an even deeper relationship with the label.

Do you have any dream collaborations—producers or vocalists—you’d love to work with?

Yes, I’d love to work with Blond:ish, Amémé, Double Touch… vocalists, I’ve always admired Reigan hugely! 

What’s next for you in 2025? Can we expect an EP, an album, or any other exciting projects on the horizon?

Currently, I’m working on some more emotional Afro pieces which will be such a beautiful contrast… one of which I’ve produced with my brother, who is an incredibly talented musician. I can’t wait to get them out!

For those who haven’t seen you play live yet, what can they expect from a NatalieJane set?

Wow! Energy, authenticity, smiles, expression and passion!‍

Buy/listen to the release here

Keep up with NatalieJane on Instagram and Soundcloud

Keep up with Ovava Records at www.ovavamusic.com