By Megan Wadding, April 2017 Issue.

For the past five years, she’s spent her Fridays nights as the resident DJ at the No. 1-voted women’s bar on the West Coast, Gossip Grill. It’s an upbeat nightclub that offers her the flexibility to play all styles of music.

But DJ Kinky Loops will be leaving the San Diego in her rearview mirror to taking the stage at the Phoenix Pride Festival’s Dance Pavilion at Phoenix Pride from 4 to 6:25 p.m. April 1. (For Echo's coverage of the 2017 Phoenix Pride festival, click here.)

Echo Magazine caught up with DJ Kinky Loops ahead of her Arizona debut and here’s what she had to say.

Echo: How did you get started with DJing?

DJ Kinky Loops: … when I had free time between [college] classes and homework, I

would drive to Guitar Center and spend hours in the Pro Audio section experimenting with equipment and making friends with the workers there who would eventually let me bring in music to mix and play around with. I knew then that this was a “hobby” I wanted to pursue at home, putting paychecks aside to eventually buy my own DJ set up, piece by piece … I just loved the music, the thrill and energy I felt from the live DJ sets, and was so curious to know what they were doing behind those decks and how they were able to work a crowd like that. I never had any training, I am literally all self-taught.

Echo: Who are your musical idols?

DJ Kinky Loops: I’ll never forget the first time I saw DJ Donald Glaude perform. His energy was through the roof and he genuinely seemed to be enjoying himself while playing and that energy was projected onto his crowd and sets. From there, I started following him throughout the West Coast … He always made the time to say hi to his fans and was always smiling and having a good time. I’d say, he is the reason for me being the type of DJ I am today.

Echo: Have you ever been to Arizona before?

DJ Kinky Loops: I have actually never been to Arizona, I am excited. I heard that there is some great hiking, I am very active and plan to take a couple days off after Pride to head to Sedona for a hiking trip. If anyone sees me at Pride, I would love a suggestion on what to do in Arizona.

Echo: What have your past experiences DJing at Pride been like?

DJ Kinky Loops: I am thankful I have been able to DJ San Diego Pride every year and, some years, DJ on a float – which is the coolest way to see the parade. I have done Palm Springs Pride and now Phoenix! … I am not going to lie, I think the gays always bring the energy. I love playing for mixed crowds though. I don’t like to be labeled as only a “gay” DJ or even as a “female” DJ. I am an entertainer and I love and respect all of my audiences equally. I feel truly grateful to be able to play for so many different types of people.

Echo: What can attendees expect of your show at Phoenix Pride?

DJ Kinky Loops: During my set you can definitely expect energy, full force! I am told I am animated during my set. Sometimes I don’t realize when I’m in the moment! You will most likely be sure to see me bouncing around and having a good time along with you guys. I love interacting with my crowds. You will have to stop by to see what music I decide to play for you this year at Phoenix Pride.

Echo: What do you try to communicate to the audience through your vibe?

DJ Kinky Loops: It’s important to me that my crowd is letting loose and having fun. My favorite saying … is “Dance like no one’s watching!”

Echo: Do you plan on catching the other shows at Pride, or walking around the festival?

DJ Kinky Loops: Absolutely! I fly in Saturday morning, so I plan to head straight to the festivities and see how you celebrate Phoenix style. Also, I plan on walking in the parade Sunday with one•n•ten … I am really excited to be a part of your community this year!

For more information on DJ Kinky Loops, visit kinkyloops.com.