Sonic Soul: Exploring the Musical Odyssey of Stella Zekri Ouiddir

With a voice that echoes the soulful sounds of legends like Sade and the innovative spirit of French singer Bonnie Banane, Stella’s musical style is a fusion of emotion and authenticity. As Stella found her footing in the vibrant Queer nightlife spaces of Berlin, she discovered a sense of community and acceptance that shaped her artistic vision. Embracing her Queerness and identity, Stella found solace and inspiration in spaces like Cocktail D’Amore, where music and self-expression intertwined in a tapestry of liberation and empowerment. In collaboration with fellow creatives Camilla and Caitlyn, Stella co-founded Body Language Berlin, a groundbreaking party collective that redefines the boundaries of inclusivity and care in the nightlife scene. Through their commitment to creating safe and welcoming spaces, Stella and her partners have cultivated a community that celebrates diversity and creativity.

HUNGER spoke to Stella, who’s rocking UGG’s® GoldenGlow Sandal, to get the lowdown on her career, and Queer representation…

Could you tell me a bit about your upbringing, where you grew up and how that shaped who you are today?

I was born in the suburbs of Paris to a German mother and an Algerian father. Growing up, music was a big part of our family. My dad, a journalist with ties to the music industry, and my mom, with impeccable taste in music, always had music playing at home. During road trips to Germany visiting my grandparents, my mom would translate the lyrics for me, deepening my connection to music.

Where you grew up, did it feel like the career you’re doing now was a possibility? Were the people in your environment open to people pursuing creative careers?

Not really. Paris was expensive and competitive for creative pursuits. The city felt limiting, and established figures held on tightly to their spots. My family was concerned about the challenges of making a living in the industry. After high school, I made the decision to leave Paris, which was a turning point for me.

What was your earliest musical memory, when did you discover it was something you were passionate about?

I was singing from a very young age and I was making up lyrics as I did not speak english yet. My mom was such a big fan of Stevie Wonder and whenever she was mad or frustrated, I sneakily put on his music. She couldn’t help but soften up. It showed me the power and impact of music on people’s emotions.

You’re both a singer and a DJ, how did you get into both of those fields?

I had my first band when I was sixteen and I was always part of the school band. I went through phases of imitating the people that I liked until I found myself. I never planned to DJ professionally. When I went to Berlin, I started collecting Vinyls and I loved them as objects in my flat. One day,  I went to a bar in Neukölln and the DJ did not show up and they desperately needed a replacement. I told the bar guy that I had a couple of records at home and he showed me how it worked – I ended up playing for 4 hours straight! I had so much fun and from then on I started playing in bars, then booked bigger jobs and next thing I knew was that I was considered a professional DJ Superstar.

What artists had the biggest impact on you and your musical style today?

Sade and French singer Bonnie Banane have been significant inspirations. Bonnie’s artistry in writing, singing, and performing resonates with me deeply. I have been following her career for fifteen years now. Can´t wait to see her concert in Paris on the 15th of May!

How would you describe the development of Queer nightlife spaces in Berlin? Is it something you think it has improved since you were first exploring those spaces?

I got to discover and embrace my Queerness at parties such as Cocktail D´Amore.

I must say that parties back then had a more male touch to them and we did not have any awareness teams and harm reduction around. There was a time where self-destructive and hardcore parties were romanticised. People would be encouraging each other to take drugs. Spaces these days are more and more developing into caring space. They also consider a wider spectrum of Queerness and people in general.

Were there any individuals/groups you looked up to for inspiration in the industry, anyone who took you under their wing?

Cocktail D’Amore was a musical revelation for me. Being a fat woman, it used to be quite difficult navigating parties, I did not enjoy it – especially in straight spaces. There, I finally wasn´t hit on or fetishised anymore. I could show skin and feel comfortable. Cocktail D’Amore provided me with opportunities and support when I was starting out. Their belief in me and platform were invaluable.

Could you talk to us a bit about Body Language Berlin? What’s the aim for the collective and how important has it been for you professionally and personally?

Body Language Berlin, founded by my friends Camilla, Caitlyn, and me, aims to create a caring and inclusive party experience. All of us are proper party girls. We felt that this idea of care was missing and that a lot of the parties were conceptualised over the actual experience. Many parties claimed to be these free and open spaces, however they usually did not live up to their promises. Prioritising the well-being of staff and artists has been essential in our journey.

How does it feel knowing that your talents as a DJ and a singer have taken you to shows all across Europe?

It feels unreal! It’s hard to get over the imposter syndrome. Do I really deserve this? It’s magical and a big validation of my art. It teaches me to stay true to myself and not jump on any trends.

What would be your advice for anyone trying to make it in the music industry today?

Trust your instincts and avoid catering solely to others’ expectations.

What’s the goal for you in your career?

I aim to release an album that I’m currently working on.

What do you have coming up for the rest of the year, anything exciting you’d like to share?

I hope to release a new record by the end of the year and continue writing new songs.