J. Worra on Chicago, melatonin, hotdogs and deep dish pizza

Originally from Chicago now based in LA. Jamie Sitter (J. Worra) has been grinding this year and has had a lot of ‘firsts’, first time playing Coachella, first time playing Lightning In A Bottle, first release on her own label imprint ARROW. She’s earned the respect of a lot of other heavy hitters in dance music that she can call supporters, such as Anna Lunoe, Sinden, Dr Fresch, AC Slater, Justin Martin, and more.

For those who don’t know you, what’s your name and what do you do?

My name is Jamie and I go by J. Worra, which is actually my mothers maiden name. I produce/DJ house music and have been under this alias for the last 7 years.

What would you say is your biggest influence?

I grew up in Chicago, so my earliest and most impactful influences are Green Velvet, Gene Farris, and Frankie Knuckles. I have also been heavily influenced by artists like Chris Lake and Billy Kenny. What I have started to learn over the last few years is the importance of taking those influences and figuring out how you let them guide your path, while still staying in your unique lane. So often you want to be just like them, but as a new(ish) artist to the scene you have to transform those influences into something new and fresh, after all you fell in love with their sound because of how fresh and unique it was.

Where’s the best club you’ve ever played?

I love playing at Sound Night Club in LA, it is always special for me. Los Angeles has been my new home for the last 4 years and to play big shows at a staple club to this city means a lot to me.

Where’s the most unique festival you’ve been to and what was so special?

One of the coolest experiences I have had was playing Holy Ship! this year. I met so many artists I love and look up to, I played sets in front of diehard house music fans, I also played my track ‘ Modern Medicine’ out for the first time and I was blown away by the reaction. I ended up launching my own label with the release of that track! Overall, there were a ton of special moments during that festival that helped me realize how far I have come as an artist and I will never take those for granted.

Is there something you can’t travel without?

Probably melatonin… I am a pretty anxious person and it can be hard to jump time zones and maintain a decent sleep schedule. Especially, when you are doing day trips and in multiple time zones a weekend.

What travel destination would you recommend our readers add to their bucket list?

CHICAGO, I get it, I am biased.. but it is such a magical city. The food, the culture, the energy, there really isn’t anything like it. My roots are so deep and I am so proud to call it home. When you do visit make sure you spend some time near the lake, whether its on the beach or taking a boat tour of some sort. Also, grab a Chicago-style hotdog and some deep dish pizza!

Her latest single came out on Friday, June 29th, “Hourglass” featuring Mark The Beast. Check it out and her own line of merchandise with company Strata.