Masha Mar
Serbian-born, Los Angeles-based DJ and music producer Masha Mar is known for her eclectic style, blending cosmic disco, tribal rhythms, and deep house.
As a DJ, she effortlessly transitions between festival stages and intimate club settings. As a producer, especially fond of using the Roland 808 and Juno 60, Masha has released acclaimed EPs and singles on SOS Records, Night Prism, and more. She champions independent radio with residencies on both NTS Radio and dublab. She teamed up with Heidi Lawden to launch Take It Outside, a femme and queer-friendly series spotlighting world-renowned artists alongside rising local talent.
Listen to her latest release POWER out now on bandcamp.
IO:
We love your new track POWER. Can you talk about the message behind it and what it symbolizes to you?
Masha:
This track has gone through so many iterations and versions. I was deeply moved by Janya the Future’s speech at a BLM protest in June 2020 and began making POWER. When the ICE raids started in June 2025 I decided it was time to finish the track, I re-did the bassline and improved the original elements, eventually releasing it this year. The message is about realizing the people’s power, standing up to injustice and changing these archaic systems designed to keep us down.
IO:
When did you start DJing/producing and what led you to take classes at IO?
Masha:
I started DJing in 2013. I had been listening to and loving house music since I was a preteen growing up in Athens where house was everywhere. It took me a while to get behind the decks, mostly because I didn’t see many women Djs. I started making music in 2015 when I joined a shared studio space and was messing around with analog gear for years until I met Adam from IO. He introduced me to the amazing production course at IO that taught me how to really use ableton, work with midi and so much more!
IO:
Can you talk about a memorable course or moment at IO Music Academy that shifted your perspective as an artist?
Masha:
Presenting our EP at the end of the course and getting feedback ƒrom industry veterans shifted my perspective and made me realize I was still very much a beginner, eager to continue my production journey.
IO:
What piece of advice do you have for other female artists and DJ's navigating the music industry?
Masha:
Stand your ground and don’t compromise. Channel the confidence of a mediocre white man. Don’t be too shy to ask, the worst that could happen is you’ll get turned down and it’ll lead to a different opportunity.