Let’s get real: representation matters. When it comes to music and fitness, the beats we move to can either lift us up or leave us feeling invisible. Right now, queer and POC DJs are shaking up the status quo, turning up the volume on what inclusivity looks (and sounds) like. They’re not just spinning tracks—they’re creating spaces where we can feel seen, celebrated, and free.
From sweaty underground clubs to your favorite fitness studio, these trailblazing DJs are changing the game for good, and we’re here for every beat.
The Power of Queer and POC DJs
The music industry hasn’t always welcomed queer and POC artists. For too long, the faces behind the decks didn’t reflect the diversity of those who fill the dance floors. But the tides have turned, and it’s time to recognize the DJs who’ve cracked open doors and made room for everyone.
Take Kaytranada, for example. This Haitian-Canadian powerhouse has exploded onto the global scene, effortlessly blending house, funk, and hip-hop. His music is more than just a vibe—it’s a reflection of queer stories that have long been missing in mainstream beats.
Then there’s Junior Vasquez, the NYC legend who defined the ‘90s house scene. He didn’t just play at the Sound Factory—he transformed it into a haven for the LGBTQ+ community. Dancing at his sets wasn’t just about the music; it was about being part of something bigger.
Tony De Vit, with his hard house sets in the UK, took over clubs in the ‘90s with his bold, high-energy sound. His music wasn’t just a way to get people moving—it was a rallying cry for queer liberation.
Inclusive Sounds in Fitness
Music isn’t just a backdrop for our workouts—it’s the driving force that pushes us harder. And thanks to queer DJs and POC artists, fitness spaces are evolving. Cycling classes, for example, are moving away from the same old Top 40 hits, tapping into global sounds like reggaetón, Afrobeats, and queer anthems.
These tracks don’t just get your heart rate up—they connect you to something deeper, allowing you to move in a way that feels authentic.
Empowering Spaces Through Music
Here’s the magic of music: it’s more than entertainment—it’s revolutionary. For queer DJs, every set, every playlist is an act of rebellion and visibility. Whether in the club or the fitness studio, their sounds carve out spaces where everyone can show up as their full, authentic selves.
When you hear a track that reflects your identity—whether it’s an Afro-Latin beat or a remix that brings back memories of Pride—it’s more than just a workout. You feel seen.
