Louder Than Labels: Mandidextrous interview

Throughout June, Skiddle put the spotlight on Pride with Louder Than Labels, a series highlighting the artists at the forefront of shaping queer culture. With Pride being all about celebration, we sought out some of the community’s most prominent figures to give exclusive one-on-one interviews, sharing their thoughts and experiences on the LGBTQ+ music scene. 

For this interview, we simply couldn’t discuss the queer music scene without chatting to Mandidextrous, a key figure in the UK and European underground circuit for over 15 years. The Chesham-born, Bristol-based artist has moulded a sound and scene entirely their own, thanks to their impactful fusion of DnB, garage, and techno. A DJ, producer, label head, and a voice for trans & non-binary artists in dance music rolled into one, Mandidextrous is a multi-faceted talent, and one of the scene’s defining voices. 

Check out their interview below, where they share their story on growing up without a strong queer community, what it means to be a queer artist in today’s music scene, and so much more. 

Growing up, was there a local queer scene you felt part of, or was it something you found yourself longing for?

"To be honest, this might sound a bit strange, but I’ve never really had a strong queer community around me. Growing up in Chesham, Buckinghamshire, I didn’t know a single other trans person in town, and I only had one gay friend - who sadly is no longer with us. I was always quite isolated and surrounded by a very heteronormative environment, and honestly, that hasn’t changed much, even today."

"It’s something I’ve struggled with for a long time. Even now, as an openly queer and trans artist in the music scene, I still find myself surrounded by the same kind of demographic. But things have gotten a little easier since moving to Bristol - there’s definitely more openness and diversity there."

When you started out, what kind of impact did you hope to have on the queer scene?

"Truthfully, I didn’t set out with a specific goal to make an impact on the queer scene. I’ve always just done my thing when it comes to music - and that hasn’t been easy. My sound is quite niche, and I’ve mostly self-released over the years."

"I never really had a narrative aimed at a particular demographic; I’ve just stayed true to who I am as an artist and let the music speak for itself."

What does it mean to be a queer artist in today’s music scene?

"Honestly, it feels like things are regressing a bit right now - especially in the UK dance music scene. We’re seeing a major decline in independent venues, and smaller promoters are struggling to keep up with the increasingly commercialized, capitalist direction of the industry."

"Social media influencers are often being prioritized over genuine talent, with agents charging huge fees for names that don’t always translate into real support or ticket sales. Meanwhile, big brands are booking only the top-selling artists, leaving little space for emerging or alternative voices to grow."

"On the flip side, I feel fortunate to have remained true to myself. I’ve built a reputation in this scene by being consistent, transparent, and authentic. I’ve grown my audience organically, without relying on smoke and mirrors. I work with people who share my values and who genuinely care about the music and community."

"But if I’m honest, being an independent trans and queer artist can feel isolating - especially because my genre doesn’t fit into what’s typically expected in queer spaces. The queer scene often leans heavily toward house and techno, and anything outside that box gets overlooked. That feels ironic to me, because if any community should be open-minded and sonically diverse, it should be ours."

How do you hope queer artists in the future will see your work or legacy?

"I’ve never been one of those overnight success stories - I’ve been in this game for over 20 years. I’ve helped innovate underground genres that have influenced an entire generation, and for me, that's a real legacy."

"Yes, my music is different. But it’s mine. I have a unique sound and style, and over the years, I’ve seen artists across genres - from techno to drum & bass - try to emulate it. That tells me I’ve been pushing boundaries and creating something that resonates."

"Sure, sometimes I wish I had more support from big labels or brands to push things further. But at the end of the day, not many artists in dance music can say they’ve achieved what I have - staying independent, authentic, and still here. And for that, I’m incredibly proud."

What’s your favourite gay anthem and why?

"Honestly, I don’t have one - and I probably never will. I don’t believe music should be boxed in like that. Music is deeply personal, and the feelings it evokes are different for everyone. What becomes an anthem is subjective - it’s not about identity labels, but about what resonates in your soul. For me, any song that moves someone can be an anthem - and that’s what makes music so powerful."

If you enjoyed this interview, check out our Louder Than Labels interview with Bent Hedonism founder Jase Jeffrey, and take your pick on the wide array of the best LGBTQ+ events on Skiddle - here.

Check out our What's On Guide to discover even more rowdy raves and sweaty gigs taking place over the coming weeks and months. For festivals, lifestyle events and more, head on over to our Things To Do page or be inspired by the event selections on our Inspire Me page.