Dublin DJ Jazzy: ‘Calvin Harris messaged me on Instagram to say he loved my song’

Yasmine Byrne, professionally known as DJ Jazzy, has swiftly transformed her life and career, ascending from a Tesco bakery worker in Dublin to one of Ireland’s most prominent music figures. Her breakthrough came in 2023 when her single "Giving Me" reached number one on the Irish charts, making her the first Irish female artist to achieve this feat in over a decade. This milestone marked the beginning of a rapidly expanding international presence and critical recognition.

Raised in Crumlin by her single mother, Catherine, Jazzy’s early exposure to music was eclectic, thanks to her mother’s diverse tastes ranging from classic rock to club anthems. Music education played a pivotal role during her childhood; she participated in a pioneering music program at St Agnes’ Primary School where her aptitude for the violin was quickly noticed. Despite initial shyness, Jazzy progressed from classical training to singing, gradually embracing a public musical identity.

Her shift from classical music to electronic dance music occurred in her late teens, influenced by Dublin’s vibrant club scene and particularly the French house duo Amine Edge & DANCE. Encouraged by her growing passion for DJing, she learned her craft through personal connections, including her partner Ross Mooney, who also became her manager and collaborator. Early releases with the hip-hop group Powerful Creative Minds set the foundation for Jazzy’s future solo projects.

Jazzy’s career accelerated following her collaboration with the Irish house collective Belters Only on the track "Make Me Feel Good," which topped Ireland’s singles chart in 2022 and garnered significant streaming success internationally. The song’s success prompted Jazzy to commit fully to her music career, supported by her record label Polydor, which provided financial assistance to focus on recording and performances.

Her debut single as a lead artist, "Giving Me," resonated widely within the club scene and mainstream radio, earning praise from established figures like Calvin Harris, who reportedly reached out personally to commend the track. This exposure led to Jazzy touring with Harris in 2023, further solidifying her status on the global stage.

In addition to her chart successes, Jazzy’s accolades include consecutive Brit Award nominations in 2024 and 2025 and a MOBO nomination in 2026. Her Spotify monthly listener count peaked at ten million in 2025, establishing her as the most streamed female DJ from Ireland. She has also held a residency on BBC Radio 1 and made her debut at the prestigious Coachella festival, expanding her audience beyond Europe.

Ahead of releasing her first full-length album, "Peace & Patience," Jazzy has continued to emphasize authenticity and community in her music. The album features collaborations with fellow Irish rapper Reggie and incorporates voices from her close-knit Crumlin community, underscoring her commitment to representing her roots. Recorded primarily in London with producer Mark Ralph, the album blends nostalgic house elements with contemporary dance music, distancing itself from mainstream pop trends.

Despite her growing fame, Jazzy remains grounded, often reflecting on her journey from humble beginnings to international acclaim. She openly discusses the challenges of sudden success, including experiences with impostor syndrome and racial prejudice, highlighting her resilience and dedication. Her personal life, including her engagement to Mooney and their move into a new home in Dublin, remains a stabilizing influence amidst the demands of touring and recording.

Currently, Jazzy prioritizes her DJing over live singing to focus her performances behind the decks, a decision reflecting her evolving artistic identity. With ongoing tours planned in the US and Europe, alongside her album launch and a headline show at Dublin’s 3Arena, Jazzy’s trajectory points toward sustained success and influence in the electronic music scene. Her story exemplifies the power of perseverance and community support in forging a new path in Ireland’s contemporary music landscape.