The music industry today is a fast-paced, dynamic environment, evolving at an unprecedented rate. With the rise of digital music streaming platforms, artists now have more opportunities than ever before to reach a global audience, and listeners can explore a diverse array of music from all corners of the world at their fingertips. This has made the industry more competitive, but also more exciting and rewarding for those who manage to stand out.
Setareh Zenouz, known to the music world as Stella Key, is a pioneering force in the international music scene. This Amsterdam-born, New York-based DJ, producer, and singer weaves a potent tapestry of pop and electronic music, casting a spell on audiences worldwide.
Zenouz ventured into DJing three years ago, just as the world braced for the onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the pause on live performances, Zenouz utilized this time to finesse her skills and construct captivating setlists. As she emerged post-pandemic, playing to live audiences in NYC, she found herself deeply in love with the kinetic energy of live performances.
A testament to her vast appeal is the 20 million+ streams her music has amassed across all platforms since 2020. Particularly noteworthy is her collaboration with The Fifth Guys on the cover remix of “Shivers,” which clocked over 1.5 million Spotify streams within just four months of its release.
Zenouz’s magic extends beyond her personal music. She produced eight tracks for the trailblazing singing competition podcast, “Breakthrough,” executive produced by The Chainsmokers, AT WILL MEDIA, and hosted by Tony and Grammy Award-winning actor Daveed Diggs. The show, a unique collaboration between Audible, Amazon Music, and At Will Media, features Grammy Award-winning singers and actors Kelly Rowland and Sara Bareilles as judges.
Her impressive discography includes collaborations with premier labels such as Magic Music Records, Sony Music, The Orchard, Loud Memory, Adept Records, Youth Energy, Storm Music Group, Frequency Music, and more. Zenouz’s music has been a fixture on several Spotify Editorial Playlists, including “New Music Friday NL,” “Hot New Dance,” “La Vida Loca,” “New Music Friday India,” “Dance Covers,” “Dance Chill,” and “Electro Mix.”
Her contributions to the music scene transcend performances and production. Zenouz was a key contributor to the first all-female produced, written, and recorded album in the Netherlands, “20 Feet Fall.” Furthermore, Zenouz collaborates with She Knows Tech in association with Ableton, conducting music production sessions and lending her expertise at the She Knows Tech summit at Power Station Studios in New York.
Zenouz also shares her knowledge and experience with up-and-coming musicians at 343 Labs, a premier music production school in New York. Through numerous workshops and courses, she has imparted her knowledge to over 50 students, thereby molding the next generation of electronic music artists.
Today, we take a closer look at Zenouz’s remarkable career trajectory, her professional accomplishments, and her thoughts on navigating the intricate world of the music industry. Through her journey, Zenouz serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring DJs, demonstrating that with passion, resilience, and the readiness to embrace change, one can indeed make a significant impact in the vibrant world of music.
When did you start playing DJ sets? Can you tell us about some of your best live performances?
I embarked on my journey as a DJ three years ago, just before the pandemic swept the world. With live performances out of the question due to the pandemic, I found an opportunity to hone my skills and curate compelling setlists.
Once the pandemic subsided and I relocated to NYC, I started performing live and genuinely fell in love with energizing a crowd through DJ-ing. One of my most memorable performances was in summer 2022, at the IboatNYC x Crustnation event, the largest party cruise ship in NYC that plays host to some of the world’s most renowned names and events.
I was granted the opportunity to perform an opening set for DVBBS, one of the most prominent electronic DJ/producer duos, which was an astounding experience. Another highlight of my career was performing at a sold-out show at The Meadows in Brooklyn. This event surpassed my expectations in terms of scale, headlined by some notable names in electronic music like Ace Aura. This experience offered me the chance to meet an array of incredible individuals and enjoy some truly memorable moments.
Do you tend to change up your gear/setup over time? Or not so much?
My equipment setup has largely remained consistent, though I have incorporated additional items as the need arose. For instance, I initially started with an AKG C214 microphone, transitioned to the Antelope modeling mic, and am now planning an upgrade to a U87. Therefore, when my work demands superior gear for enhanced quality, I don’t hesitate to switch or elevate my setup.
Regarding Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), I’ve consistently utilized Ableton for close to six years. I’ve even had the privilege of collaborating with the company, a leading entity in the global music software industry. My work with them encompasses assisting with music production workshops and masterclasses as well as mentoring emerging artists.
How far ahead of time do you prepare a particular set? Is there room for improvisation as well?
Previously, I devoted more time to preparing a specific set list in a certain order. However, my approach has since shifted, and now I invest most of my time in curating a great selection of music to evoke a particular vibe. As a result, the majority of my sets are now improvised, influenced primarily by the crowd’s reaction, the prevailing mood, and the music I personally enjoy playing.
What’s something you’ve discovered about playing shows that you didn’t realize at first?
Indeed, things don’t always follow the script, and each venue at which you perform offers a unique experience. Preparation is paramount – this can include having multiple USB sticks as backups for your sets, carrying necessary cables and gear, and being equipped to handle any technical hitches. Ultimately, regardless of any unforeseen challenges, you must persevere and deliver a compelling set. This understanding took some time to develop, and it’s a realization that typically comes with experience.