Record collector, DJ, radio host, and founder of female-focused vinyl night Wanita Music, Sasha – also known as DJ Jawa Jones – has become a vital presence in London’s vinyl scene. Rooted in her Indonesian-British heritage and driven by a love for crate-digging and community-building, Sasha has carved out spaces in the city and closer to her Sussex coast home that champion women and non-binary artists behind the decks. I spoke to Sasha about her first record, the thrill of collecting, and the origins of Wanita Music.
Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I’m Sasha, an Indonesian-British record collector, DJ, radio host, and founder of Wanita Music. I run several London-based music events, including Wanita, a female-focused vinyl night; East Asia Beat at Spiritland with my DJ partner Lucky Cat Zoë; and Mari Nari, a celebration of ESEA music and DJs. I also host the Wanita Music Show, where I invite women working in music to share their stories and favourite female records.
What sparked your interest in collecting records?
I’ve always loved flea markets, charity and antique shops as there’s something special about finding unique, nostalgic treasures. On one of those visits, I came across a 7-inch of Madonna’s Like a Prayer, and that moment kicked off my obsession with collecting her 80s hits. That first record sparked a full-blown vinyl addiction (haha!).
What is it about vinyl that you love most?
Vinyl has a personal connection that you can’t get from streaming. Each vinyl in my collection has a story and a memory attached to it. And it’s true what fellow vinyl lovers say, there’s just something magical about turning the turntable on, placing the needle on a record, hearing the crackle, and letting the music take over. It invites you to be present and listen with intention.
“Wanita Music is more than just a party; it’s about visibility and creating joyful spaces where we can connect over music that moves us”
When did you start DJ’ing, and what got you behind the decks?
I started DJ’ing in 2017 shortly after I moved to Munich, Germany. My then-boyfriend asked me to DJ with him at our local dive bar, Schwarzen Hahn, and that night, the bar owner offered an opportunity to run my own vinyl nights.
What’s the story behind Wanita Music?
Wanita Music was born out of a love for vinyl and a desire to create a welcoming and safe space for women in the music scene. “Wanita” means “woman” in Indonesian, which felt fitting as both a personal nod to my heritage and a name that speaks to its purpose.
I started Wanita in 2018 as a night to spotlight female vinyl DJs and celebrate music by women. It started in Munich and then found a home in London, growing into a community of DJs and music lovers who are passionate about records and lifting up women’s voices through music.
To me, it is more than just a party; it’s about visibility and creating joyful spaces where we can connect over music that moves us.
Why do you think it’s important for female-centred spaces like Wanita Music and Vinylettes to exist?
The vinyl community has long been a male-dominated space; whether that’s in record shops, behind the decks, or in conversations about collecting and crate-digging. That’s why female-centred spaces like Wanita Music, Vinylettes, Vinyl Bitch are so important.
They create room for women and non-binary DJs and collectors to be visible, supported, and celebrated. It’s not just about representation, but about building community, sharing knowledge, and amplifying the voices that are often overlooked in mainstream spaces.
What’s the most prized record in your collection?
This is a tricky question as I have so many for different reasons!
The most prized is Sandy Edmonds’ “Come See Me”, released in 1966 on the Zodiac label, which I bought from my dear friend Keith, who sadly passed away far too soon. He was a deeply respected promoter and DJ, an ally to Wanita, and someone whose support and kindness meant a great deal to me.
Another cherished record is Ervinna and The Stylers’ “Beautiful Sunday” released in 1972 on the White Cloud label. I bought this 45 from DJ Honey, whose work I admire and with whom I’m lucky to share a close friendship. Her support for gender rights and female artists, and her shows Kiss Kiss Bang Bang and Girls on the Groove, inspired me to start Wanita.
Ervinna is an artist from Surabaya (where my mum was born), her cover of Smokey Robinson’s “Get Ready” is a Wanita set staple. This record is special to me because it connects my friendship with Honey, the spirit of Wanita, and my roots.
Where do you like to go crate-digging?
In the Sussex coast where I’m based, I love going to Spun Records – the owner, Rob, has a great eye and ear for selecting unique music by current artists, and he also lets me run Worthing Girl Wine & Vinyl nights at his lovely shop! Rare Kind Records in Brighton is also a favourite spot to dig affordable soul and funk records.
When I go back to Jakarta, I love going to Pasar Santa, they have lots of great record stores, including my two favourites: Jajan Kaset and Laidback Blues Record Store
In London, my favourite digging spots are Yoyo Records and Rooks Records
The highlight of crate-digging for me is always the people you meet and the great conversations you have about music, local artists, and parties. Last year, I had the pleasure of playing at an in-store party at Jajan Kaset, sharing the decks with some amazing local DJs — including the wonderful Iramamama.
Follow Sasha and Wanita Music over on Instagram.
