RACHEL Andrews sure can DJ. The 28-year-old lawyer and former Canberran was recently named one of 10 finalists in the She Can DJ competition by record label EMI.

The winner of the competition will join the ranks of other EMI recorded dance acts including David Guetta, Deadmau5, Tinie Tempah, Miami Horror and Empire of the Sun.

Rachel, who left Canberra two years ago, has given herself a “two-year ultimatum” to take her DJ career to the next level and hopes She Can DJ will be her big break.

“I am taking it one day at a time,” she said. “I know I have a one-in-10 chance of winning, but that’s a one-in-nine chance of not winning!”
Music has always been a passion for Rachel, who was first introduced to performing through the piano and later the clarinet, saxophone, guitar and drums.

But it was working at North Bar, while studying at ANU, that sparked her interest in getting behind the decks.

“I’ve always loved music, I first played the piano and organ and in the school bands, but never thought beyond that,” she said.

“Then I was working behind the bar in North Bar… I just fell in love with the scene.”

Her music led to residencies at Academy, North Bar, Bbar, Minque and Tongue & Groove.

She transferred to Melbourne with the Australian Government Solicitor, and soon gained a residency at Fusion at Crown Casino and a regular spot at the Rogue Dance parties.

Rachel, who specialises in commercial law, recently completed her masters at ANU, with a particular focus on entertainment law.

She says her law background could be considered an advantage in the music industry.

“I think it grounds you a little more,” she said.

“Plus the skills in life, public speaking, negotiation. And also to have my life not completely revolve around music.”

Although Melbourne is home for now, Rachel still considers Canberra close to her heart.

“Canberra is an amazing place to raise a family,” she said.

“And almost all of my family live there. It’s close to my heart and I love to visit.”

The winner of She Can DJ will not only receive a global recording contract with EMI but a networking trip to the 2011 Ibiza closing parties, a mix compilation release under the She Can DJ banner, artist album release, a masterclass with an international producer and a course in electronic music production.

The winner will be announced on Wednesday, September 14 at the Ivy in Sydney.

Rachel will make a guest appearance at Trinity Bar, Dickson, on Saturday, August 20.