Get to know: Marlie

Marlie is a standout figure in the minimal house and techno scene, but what many don't know is that before conquering stages, she was an elite athlete. Her transition from sports to DJing was not accidental, but rather the result of years of dedication, discipline, and sacrifice—qualities she developed from a young age. In this interview, Marlie shares her journey from gymnastics training to DJ sets, offering an intimate look at her personal and professional evolution.

Marlie's life as an athlete began very early.

"From the age of four, my life (and my parents’) revolved around my sports schedule," she recalls.

By five, she was already part of the elite artistic gymnastics squad, training six days a week. But her talent extended beyond gymnastics, as she also competed at the state and national levels in diving, athletics, and tennis. Eventually, she decided to focus solely on gymnastics, which allowed her to achieve significant milestones.

"In 2016, I was at my peak, becoming the Level 9 Australian national champion overall, on the floor, and balance beam."

However, success in gymnastics also came at a cost.

"It was during that time that I had my first knee surgery," Marlie admits.

Although she continued to compete, she knew the end was near. After three surgeries and countless hours of physiotherapy, she decided to retire at the age of 19

Retiring from sports was an incredibly difficult time for Marlie.

"I wasn’t sure what my next moves were, so I began working and saving money to travel."

In 2013, she embarked on a trip across Europe and the UK, which would ultimately change her life.

"I returned to Australia feeling like I hadn’t finished exploring the other side of the world, so I applied for a visa and went straight to London."

It was in this city that Marlie began discovering her passion for music, particularly through the underground party scene. At an East London warehouse rave called "Keep on Going," she fell in love with the minimal sound.

"I quickly became friends with the DJs and started learning how to mix at after-parties.”

Marlie attributes much of her success in music to the lessons she learned as an athlete.

"One of the main values that has been beneficial in my transition is understanding sacrifice to achieve a goal," she explains.

As an athlete, she missed out on many typical teenage experiences to focus on her dream of becoming an Olympian, a sacrifice that has also been necessary in her music career.

"When I decided to take music seriously, I knew it wouldn’t work if I stayed in Australia, as easy access to European cities was essential."

With the support of her European heritage, Marlie obtained a Greek passport in 2018 and relocated to London, leaving behind her family, friends, and familiar lifestyle in Australia.

Self-discipline has also played a crucial role in her career as a DJ.

"No matter how you’re feeling physically, mentally, or emotionally, when it’s time to get up on stage, you need to maintain your focus," she explains.

Marlie also emphasizes the importance of moderating alcohol consumption during her sets, a practice that keeps her in top form for the constant travel and tight schedules her profession demands.

The year 2024 has been a defining one for Marlie, with performances at major festivals like Glastonbury, Unum Festival, and EDC Las Vegas.

"Receiving a text from my agent on New Year’s Eve confirming I was to play at Glastonbury made for a special end to 2023 and gave me high hopes for the year ahead," she says.

These experiences have given her new sources of inspiration and the motivation to keep pushing forward.

"Ticking off a few milestones sooner than expected this year is a promising feeling, and I’m incredibly grateful for these opportunities."

Of all the events she’s played at, EDC Las Vegas stands out as her most inspiring gig to date.

"My hour-and-a-half set went by way too quickly; I enjoyed every moment of it," she recalls fondly.

The energy of the crowd and the atmosphere of the festival left a lasting impression on her.

"This opportunity gave me a little taste of what the future could look like if I continue to work hard," she reflects.

Marlie has not only succeeded as a DJ but also as a promoter and creator of "Roots," a project that began in 2017 in Sydney and has grown into a recognized brand in both Australia and London.

"While waiting for my European passport to be granted, I decided to start something fresh on my own."

The first "Roots" event in London took place in 2019 at Hackney Marshes, drawing 600 people and fostering a community around the minimal sound. After the pause caused by the pandemic, Marlie has taken "Roots" to the next level, finding a new home at Hoxton Docks, a versatile event space in East London. Today, "Roots" events feature multiple rooms, varied music genres, and even a supper club—a reflection of Marlie’s vision to create a complete experience for her followers.

As Marlie continues to rise in the global music scene, her focus on discipline, sacrifice, and self-determination remains at the heart of her success. With upcoming performances in Miami, New York, South America, and ADE, she’s more excited than ever about what the future holds.

"I’m still working hard to see where all this takes me, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunities that have come my way," she concludes.

Marlie’s journey from elite athlete to world-renowned DJ is a testament to how perseverance and passion can guide someone through any challenge. Her story is an inspiration both on and off the dancefloor.