Photography courtesy of Karim Olen Ash
Plus, his best post-party beauty tip.
By Annika Lautens
Date June 6, 2022
A DJ and producer with a killer sense of style, Karim Olen Ash is a rising Canadian star that should most definitely be on your radar. Here, the multihyphenate shares his playlist for Pride and his other top tips to get the most out of the month.
What’s been your most memorable Pride experience?
In 2019, I was DJing at Electric Island during Pride and I had one of those realizations where I was like, ‘Wow, I’m an artist.’ I could also just feel the love in the crowd. To see straight and queer people all there for the music and harmoniously dancing was beautiful.
Photography courtesy of Karim Olen Ash
I don’t really have a specific outfit, but I love to gender bend and wear clothes that make me feel powerful and elegant. My staples are a nice pair of shades, chunky sneakers and a hat to keep the sun off my face.
Any beauty tips for the morning after a night out?
Hydrate! Make sure you drink enough water — not just after you get home but also during the night and the next day. And wear sunscreen. I can’t stress enough how much that’s changed my skin.
What separates a good DJ from a great DJ?
Having a unique perspective and confidence. I’ve been DJing for about 10 years, and I value voices that have not been heard or put on a platform before, including a lot of female, queer and BIPOC artists who haven’t been able to play on bigger stages.
Photography courtesy of Karim Olen Ash
What does Pride mean to you?
It’s really about being unapologetically myself and embracing the community. But it’s also important to remember all the sacrifices and hardships we’ve gone through to get to where we are today and to push for an even better future.
What are five songs on your 2022 Pride playlist?
“The Boss” by Diana Ross
“The Ha Dance” by Masters at Work
“C*nty” by Kevin Aviance
“Music is the Answer” by Celeda and Danny Tenaglia
“Fly Life” by Basement Jaxx