Spotlight on Pink Noizes: A Night of Femme and Queer DJs at Vassar
Last Friday night, April 24, WVKR, Vassar College’s independent radio station, rolled out the pink carpet for their annual celebration of femme and queer DJs known as Pink Noizes. This vibrant, lively event showcased an impressive lineup, featuring singer and DJ Ren Evangeline Gray, known professionally as Ren G. This pop-EDM powerhouse from New York City headlined the night, bringing her unique energy and magnetic stage presence to the audience. Adding to the excitement, the student DJ duo DJ Creature, comprised of friends Naomi Sullins (’27) and Edy Savage (’28), stepped into the spotlight with their very first live set.
A Dazzling Opening Act
The ambiance of the Villard Room burst with life, adorned in bright pink tulle and sparkling glitter, while concert-goers tossed pink balloons into the air, dancing to the infectious beats. DJ Creature kicked off the night with an electrifying set that featured tracks from iconic artists like Underworld to Machine Girl. Clad in sunglasses and lacy bralettes, Sullins and Savage delivered a high-energy performance that set a thrilling tone for the evening. “I had so much fun,” Savage remarked post-performance, relief evident in her voice. “This was my DJing debut, so I spent the hours before feeling afraid, but the crowd and Ren G made me feel so welcome!”
The duo’s friendship runs deep beyond the turntables; they spent hours rehearsing on Sullins’ equipment in preparation for their big night. Although this was Savage’s first official gig, Sullins had prior experience DJing at house parties under the name DJ Roger Sullins. Reflecting on her journey, Sullins shared, “My friend sold me their old DJ deck, and I really wanted to learn how to use it because I thought DJing was so awesome. I really like electronic music, and I think learning how to DJ would enhance that… I was really excited to play at something that was… hosted by such a cool club… Also, I love Ren G.”
The Magic of Ren G’s Performance
After a brief intermission, the spotlight turned to Ren G, who captivated the audience not only with her music but also with genuine interactions between songs. Her set featured several of her hit singles along with fan favorites from her EP “Hello!” and her album “Miss 24/7.” The charisma she exuded on stage made her presence palpable, fostering connection with the audience that left everyone buzzing with excitement.
Celebrating a Decade of Pink Noizes
This year, Pink Noizes proudly marks its 10-year anniversary, though its roots run deeper, extending back about a decade in various forms. “We have an incredible amount of femme DJs who have been spinning on our decks for years,” noted Haley Brown (’27), WVKR’s Promotions Director and visionary behind Pink Noizes. Celebrating the legacy of previous performers, she spoke of notable alumni who have graced the stage, like Frost Children and MGNA Crrrta, each adding to the history of this empowering event. “It’s fun, and it’s always right before, on the cusp of fame, you know? It always feels like we’re finding them at the right time.”
The Care Behind the Scenes
WVKR’s commitment to hosting exceptional events is apparent at every level. Ren G’s dressing room was whimsically marked with a glittery star bearing her name, showing how well the team caters to their artists. Her requests for a sugar-free Red Bull and makeup wipes were thoughtfully complemented with an array of all-pink candy and free Vassar merchandise, reflecting the spirit of the event.
Ren G’s Musical Journey
Ren G grew up in Huntington, Long Island, and now resides in Brooklyn, where she found her musical bliss. “MTV was still on when I was a kid,” she reminisces, mentioning that her early exposure to music videos from bands like The Smashing Pumpkins shaped her aspirations. Initially, Ren was part of the band Club Eat, but after they disbanded in 2024, she decided to embrace a solo career. As of now, she boasts over 16,000 monthly listeners on Spotify. “I actually started DJing before I made music—that was my foray into really just building my taste and learning about even more music,” she explained, emphasizing how the New York music scene has been a breeding ground for her talent.
Embracing Inclusivity and Community
Regarding her experience as a queer DJ in New York City, Ren G encapsulates the essence of the vibrant scene: “What I love about New York and the parties in New York is actually all the parties feel like a melting pot of everybody.” This inclusive environment allows all types of people to come together, a quality that she deeply appreciates in her performances.
Ren G has collaborated with a myriad of artists, including Isabella Lovestory, Snow Strippers, and Dorian Electra, who influence and inspire her artistic journey. Enthusiastically, she reflected on her excitement to headline Pink Noizes: “I love playing shows. I love meeting new people. And especially if anybody shows any interest in me or my music, that actually means the world to me.”
The Heart of WVKR’s Mission
Brown and the WVKR team radiated enthusiasm for hosting Ren G at this special event. “The thing about WVKR is when we throw these events, it’s always an artist who wants to be here for the music,” she said passionately. “It’s never about status, it’s never about money, it’s never about clout. It’s very much artists who are appreciative.” This ethos reinforces the authenticity and connection that the student body shares with the artists, fostering a unique atmosphere.
With the community’s support, both attendees and performers alike reveled in the magic of Pink Noizes—an event that not only showcases talent but also celebrates love, inclusivity, and the vibrant tapestry that is the femme and queer music scene.
