We had a chat with the versatile DJ and producer about her single on 95 Records, genres and styles she likes exploring, her DJ sets and lots more.
There’s a simple one-step process to becoming a fan of Jen Payne’s music, and that is just listening to her music. Her music is a masterful fusion of influences, drawing from a vast spectrum of dance music styles, seamlessly blending elements that resonate with both the heart and the dance floor. Each track tells a story, inviting listeners into her world, where every beat and melody reflects her profound connection to the genre.
The Kildare-based DJ and producer has quickly established herself as one of the most exciting emerging talents to watch. Breaking barriers with her unique sound, Jen made history by becoming the first UK & Eire female artist to achieve a solo Tech House Top 10 hit on Beatport, a milestone that underscores her growing influence in the genre. Her chart-topping success has garnered widespread attention, with her releases earning prime spots on Capital Dance playlists and receiving support from industry heavyweights like KISS, David Penn, and MistaJam.
Jen Payne’s ability to craft infectious dance floor anthems has now landed a release on 95 Records for an pacy, driving and vocal-led dancfloor bubbler, ‘Believe’. 95 Records is the same label which brought us the viral Kabin Crew’s ‘The Spark’, and Jen Payne now makes her debut on the label vibrant, uplifting anthem that is also colourfully produced by DJ/Producer John Gibbons and FISTOFTIST.
Captivated by her latest single, TFword sat down with Jen Payne to discuss her new release, her unique musical style, the energy behind her DJ sets, and her plans for the future.
‘Believe’ also marks your first release on 95 Records. Talk us through your experience of working with the label?
Jen Payne: Working with 95 Records has been such an exciting step, and it felt like a really natural progression after doing multiple gigs with Dec Pierce over the last two years. I’m a huge fan of Dec, both as an artist and as a person, so getting to collaborate with him and work with 95 Records has been an incredible experience.
What we love about the tune is how it takes control of proceedings right from the first beat and takes us a journey with its throbbing undercurrent; we love how ‘Believe’ progresses and grows on us. Talk us through the creative process of the tune!
Jen Payne: I really wanted to capture that high-energy vibe that I love so much, especially from ‘90s music. That era had this infectious pulse and drive, and it’s the kind of energy I aim to bring to my DJ sets as well. I started with a strong beat to grab attention from the very first second, then layered in throbbing basslines and progressive builds to give it that journey-like feel. The goal was to keep the energy flowing and evolving, so it’s a track that keeps people moving and excited right to the end
Talk us through the earliest days when you started making music; how and when did it all begin for Jen Payne?
Jen Payne: It all started back in college when I was studying Sports Rehabilitation. One of our modules was focused on aerobics classes, and it covered how BPM could impact movement—starting with a lower BPM for warm-ups and gradually increasing it to get the body moving faster and more intensely. This concept completely blew my mind; I realized how powerful music is in influencing energy and movement. That was the turning point for me—I decided to drop out and pursue music technology instead. From there, I threw myself into learning everything I could about production, and I’ve never looked back.
What are the genres Jen Payne likes exploring other than her formative ones?
Jen Payne: I absolutely love Spanish music, especially reggaeton and latin house.
Who were your biggest inspirations when you started writing music?
Jen Payne: Hannah Wants inspired me with her high-energy sets and unique style, which pushed me to explore my own sound in a similar way. And Kölsch, with his melodic yet powerful productions, showed me how music can be both emotive and driving. These artists have all played a huge role in shaping my journey as a musician and DJ
What would you describe as your best festival experience?
Jen Payne: My best festival experience has to be Longitude 2023 when I opened the main stage. It was such an unforgettable moment! The energy from the crowd, the atmosphere, and the sheer excitement of being on that massive stage were incredible. It felt surreal to be part of such a big festival and to kick things off in a way that set the tone for the day. That experience will always hold a special place in my heart.
How does Jen Payne plan to close the year 2024?
Jen Payne: I plan to close out 2024 in the best way possible—in the studio, working on new music for 2025. This year has been incredible, and I want to carry that momentum into next year with fresh tracks and even more energy. Being in the studio is where I feel most creative and focused, and I’m excited to push my sound further and bring some exciting new ideas to life. Stay tuned, because there’s so much more to come!
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