Pink hair, insane energy and charisma on the mic, we start of 2018 with our Honey, DJ and presenter Snoochie Shy. You’d know her from London’s Radar Radio, where she hosts the Breakfast show and even a cameo appearance in Big Shaq’s “Man’s Not Hot”. She also has a BBC 1Xtra Residency and hosts YO! MTV RAPS...oh, and she’s hosted the first Afropunk festival in London! 2017 was a phenomenal year for her and we know 2018 will be even better — this girl knows how to make this year, her year.

Congrats on your BBC 1Xtra Residency. What does it mean to be on there?

Thank you! Ah, I literally can't believe it! I've always listened to BBC radio so it means a lot to be given such a great opportunity to have a show on their station! I'm looking forward to being able to play all of the UK music I love on my show, and making the show as crazy as I am!

Your recent work with MTV is YO! MTV RAPS. What’s your biggest takeaway from your first telly gig?

I've always wanted to present for MTV. Its always a dream of mine and to be given such a great show to host as my first television job is great! It was such an iconic show back in the day. I've watched all the episodes on YouTube, so it's an honour to be able to host the London version of Yo! Especially as I'm hosting it alongside one of my good friends, Poet, too! It's so fun and can't wait for everyone to see the show.

You started off with fashion and styling work. You also taught yourself to DJ. Tell us about your interest in style and music — what about them both resonates with you?

Growing up I was really shy. I wasn’t very talkative, which is weird to think, considering I'm a presenter now. As I was so shy, I used to love dressing up and expressing myself through clothes. Fashion is great as it showcases your personality. DJ'ing wise, I've come from quite a musical family and one day I just saved up, bought decks, locked myself in a room and taught myself. I remember asking for my first set in a bar before I even fully knew how to DJ. That booking really pushed me as it made me work towards the end goal.

With pink being your colour, what are your thoughts on pink sneakers — trend or timeless?

Pink creps are cool. I’ve got quite a few at home! At the moment, my favourite trainers are Nike 97's and they come in pink too!

Top three sneakers on rotation?

Nike x Zalando Yellow Upstep Air Max trainers

Nike 97's (all colours)

And I wear Fila creps a lot too!

You also won the best presenter award at UK Entertainment! In your opinion, what makes a good presenter?

I think it’s about being completely comfortable with being yourself and not worrying about what other people think! On top of that, listening is really important. I remember when I first started I used to get so nervous that I'd just focus on the next question I was asking instead of listening to the answers artists were giving lol but it all comes with time and practice.

Your mom must be super proud! What’s something that she has taught you that you hold to heart?

My mum is my absolute G, I wouldn't be where I am today without her guidance. Gavin from Radar has also been pivotal to my career. There have been times where I've wanted to give up, and they've both been there to push me to keep going. The most important thing I’ve learnt is to be patient as it’s all about timing. Knowledge is power and my mum always told me growing up your body is your temple. 

Talk us through the conception of Breakfast with Shy at Radar. What was the idea behind that?

When I first joined Radar, there wasn't a consistent breakfast show and I remember when I joined I said straight away I wanted to do that slot. I've always been a morning person so it was perfect for me! I want artists to come through and for people to see other sides to them, I love getting people's personalities out, asking them random questions and playing silly games. I want everyone to have fun on the show and for it to be an experience, not just for the guests but the listeners too. That's really important to me.

Lastly, what has 2017 taught you about yourself?

I learnt to never give up and to fully believe in myself. This time (Dec) last year I wanted to give up and if I did I wouldn't be where I am now, it's important to remember that everything happens for a reason and what's meant for you will come. But, you have to work for it and you can't let anything stop you. Train your mind to seek a positive out of every negative and you'll be alright.

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