Check out our interview with talented New York-based artist/producer/DJ/model Callie Reiff who just released today her new single, “Crash Into Me (ft. Madison Daniel).”
“Crash Into Me (ft. Madison Daniel)” sets the precedent for the new era of Callie’s sound — the single puts her electrifying indie-in-the-club production on full display, her emotional and energetic production fusing effortlessly with the airy, timeless vocals of singer-songwriter Madison Daniel.
From musical prodigy to industry trendsetter, Callie Reiff is unlike any other 21-year-old. There’s a reason she’s gained global support from tastemakers like The Cut, Teen Vogue, Vice and BBC Radio 1’s Annie Nightingale — with each performance and release Callie exudes bubbling, fearless energy and unrivaled character. After becoming the youngest DJ to perform at NYC’s Webster Hall at the age of 15, Callie has gone on to perform at festivals such as Creamfields, EDC Las Vegas, Tomorrowland, and Ultra and has opened for world-renowned acts including Ed Sheeran and Skrillex.
Follow Callie @calliereiff
Hi Callie, please tell us a little about you?
Hey Naluda Magazine, thanks for your time! My name’s Callie Reiff. I’m a 21 year old artist and producer born and raised in New York City. I love oat milk lattes, sushi, boba tea, good music and movies, podcasts, driving and my family and friends. I’ve always loved music and feel it’s just who I am. I feel like that covers most of it!
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Constantly Making Music… haha or… loyal, ambitious and honest!
We’re sure you have been asked this million times, but how did you get started in the music industry?
I started off by learning how to drum at age 10. Then around 2 years later I heard about festivals and DJs and really wanted to try it. I found this DJ school online called Dubspot in NYC and walked in there when I was 12, asking them to teach me how to mix on vinyl records. During my first lesson I fell in love with everything about it. I practiced every single day for 3 years and my DJ teacher then took me to Webster Hall to see my first electronic show. I was mesmerized and knew that would be the first place I wanted to play. I got the promoter to come to my DJ teacher’s studio and hear me play and we went B2B to test out my skills. It was tough because at the time I was only 15 years old and Webster Hall is very strict with age limits (21 and over) but a week later he called me and told me he was going to have me open for Mija at the Electric Zoo Music Festival After party. The Webster Hall crew then made me a resident DJ every weekend and from there I started to book gigs at other places in the city. Knowing that one day I would want to headline my own show and play my own music, I started teaching myself Ableton. I am really grateful to everyone who has believed in me over the years. I’m really happy with this new music I’m releasing as it’s been a journey (and still is)!
Describe your sound in 3 words?
I can describe it in 2 for you: Indie Club.
Tell us about your new single “Crash Into Me (ft. Madison Daniel)?”
I’m sooo sooo excited about this!! My new single with “Crash Into Me” means a lot to me because it’s the first single coming out that really portrays this new sound I’ve been working on. The music I’m releasing this year has been in the works for basically the last 2 years. It feels so right to release this right now and I’m just hoping everyone loves it as much as I do!
What’s the story behind the song?
This song is about the hope and dream that you will be with a person forever — dreaming of this false reality that you are perfect for each other and you just want to dive into the deep end with them and never look back. In the bridge you can hear Madison singing with a lot of emotion and I think it pulls the whole story together for the song. It’s a feel-good song with deep lyrics and storytelling — I feel like a lot of us need this sort of escapism right now.
Did you have plans/concerts planned and cancelled because of COVID? If so have you done any online concerts or interaction with your fans?
I had a few shows in the works before COVID hit! I was super lucky though and maybe a month before NYC went into lockdown mode I got to play 4 nights with Deadmau5 in Brooklyn. I feel like I held on to that high and just dove into my music production with no shows happening. Since I have my DJ equipment in my room I have been able to do some Twitch and Instagram virtual shows which have been so awesome. Every Sunday this month I’m taking over Sofi Tukker’s Twitch Channel at 1 pm EST — come join in!
Tell us about your experience performing at global festivals like Creamfields, EDC Las Vegas, Tomorrowland, and Ultra?
I get chills just thinking about those times!! The crowds are on another level at these festivals which is awesome. Being able to even attend let alone play Tomorrowland was such a crazy experience too. I think all the people that work at these festivals from the sound engineers to stage managers to security guards are the best. It’s also so fun to be in the artist area and meet all the different artists performing.
After COVID, what are your feelings about large festivals like Ultra and EDC? Do you think all will go back to normal?
With the good news of the vaccine and people continuing to wear masks, I feel like there’s a light at the end of the tunnel and protocols some festivals around the world have already tried that seem to be working. I’m hoping things can get back to normal to some degree but also feel like festivals will come up with ways to keep it safe for everyone either way. I can’t wait to experience live music again and also to play a show!
How and when did you start modeling?
I started modeling actually at a very young age when I was still dancing with the New York City Ballet company. I was probably around 7 or 8 years old. My mom was a swimsuit designer so I think using fashion as a way to express myself just runs in my blood! As I got more into music and knew that’s what I want to do, I realized I could continue to work with designers but in a more collaborative aspect or showcasing my music in the campaigns and so on.
The most important thing when you are shooting a campaign?
Make sure you have a fire playlist playing and you get along with everyone. Don’t be shy to voice your opinion or creative ideas. Feeling confident and comfortable during a shoot is most important for the photos to come out looking awesome. Also working with kind, awesome people is a must!
Do you have any advice for models starting out in the industry?
I really collaborate or do campaigns with brands that I actually wear or love. I think it’s important to remain authentic to yourself and trust your gut.
What is the most rewarding part of what you do?
Being able to do what I do and see people relate to my music in any way is unreal. It’s the best feeling ever. Also the energy I get from the crowd and being able to meet amazing people and connect with people from all over.
How would you describe your fashion style?
I love vintage finds, thrifting and clashing prints or just keeping it simple in all black. So I guess a little bit of everything… but there’ always a 99.9% chance I’ll have on Doc Martens, a baby tee or a beanie.
How would your best friend describe you?
Hmmm… she would probably say I’m the best friend ever 😉 haha.
What’s next for Callie Reiff in 2021?
I’m really focused on the music which I’m so excited about. I’ll be releasing some singles and then an EP! Hopefully play some shows in person if it’s safe but that’s up in the air right now. Until then I’m doing some Twitch and Instagram live sets which have been super fun!
What is your own definition of happiness?
Listening to music in the car with my best friends, performing live or when an idea of mine starts to come together when I’m producing music! Anything involving music brings me happiness.
How is a normal day in your life?
During COVID a normal day has become very simple but I’m also not mad about it as it’s gotten me into a real structured routine. I usually start my day with a workout, either inside or a run outside while listening to a podcast or blasting tunes, then I make some avocado toast or something pretty healthy, work on music, piano and vocals for most of the day, drink coffee, send emails, have FaceTime catch ups and then end it with a friend or just hanging at home!
What is your idea of a perfect Sunday?
Chilling with family or friends, making some music and watching a movie. I also usually see my grandma and eat bagels!
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
Nina Simone. Her lyrics and words mean a lot to me and I love the way she was as an artist and pianist. Honest and put it all on the table.
Best advice you’ve ever given?
Everyone has their time, longevity is key. Stay patient and never delete any idea you have
Name 3 things you can’t live without?
My computer, my DJ equipment & coffee.
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years from now?
Hopefully continuing to do what I love and have a bunch of music of mine released! I’d love to do headline shows and some tours by then and travel to new places plus meet new faces. Connect with as many fans as possible and play as many shows as I can. I’d also love to do some capsule collections to connect my music with my fashion with a cool brand I like and tons of other fun experiences! The possibilities are endless.
What is your favorite song of all time? Why?
“By Your Side” by Sade because she is magic. Also “At Last” by Etta James because it was my parents wedding song and my dad used to play it for us growing up and still does!
Where we can follow you on social media?
@calliereiff on all platforms!
Quote: Nina Simone: “I’ll tell you what freedom is to me: no fear. I mean, really, no fear!”
Singer/Artist: Some of my favorite artists are Skrillex, Kito, Kaytranada, SG lewis, Mura Masa and FKA Twigs.
Movie: It’s tough to pick just one but one of my favorites is A Star Is Born both Barbara’s version and the recent Lady Gaga one!
Travel Destination: I love anywhere with warm weather and a beach. You would find me 90% of the time swimming in the ocean!
Sports Team: Not really a huge sports person but I gotta say The Knicks since I’m a New Yorker!
TV Show: This is also a tough one! I recently watched The Queen’s Gambit and was obsessed. I also love Industry, I May Destroy You and Euphoria.
Book: Just Kids by Patti Smith
Photo Credit: Bellamy Brewster
