IN CONVERSATION WITH LISA KORVER
interview by ELIANA CASA
To celebrate the launch of its new fragrance, Only Desire, Diesel transformed Amsterdam’s Leidseplein into a one-day pop-up block party inspired by the campaign’s message of embracing what you truly want. The event featured DJ sets from DJ Nems and Lisa Korver alongside experiences including tooth gems, piercings and handwritten letters of desire that guests could mail to their future selves. Before taking over the decks, Amsterdam-based DJ and producer Lisa Korver joined us to talk about desire beyond the dance floor.
all images courtesy of DIESEL
What first drew you to DJing?
Mostly the people. I went to every festival in Amsterdam and beyond, and one that really stayed with me was Primavera in Barcelona. Everyone I met in the music scene — every DJ, every producer — was so kind, welcoming and creative. I always felt like I belonged, and that sense of community was what really drew me into becoming a DJ myself.
The Only Desire campaign is about encouraging women to claim their wants and needs without feeling guilty. What does that message mean to you?
For me, it’s very freeing to embrace your desires. Often I find myself not doing that, and it makes me feel like I’m putting myself in a box. When I was younger, I was afraid to express myself in the way I wanted to.
Now I’ve realised that following your desires, regardless of what other people think, feels incredibly liberating. Of course, you should always respect other people’s boundaries and feelings, but I think allowing yourself to be honest about what you want is really important.
Was there ever a moment when your success made you feel uncomfortable?
There have definitely been moments. For example, last weekend my ADE events sold out within a day, which was incredible. Those moments can be difficult because you have to keep both feet on the ground, as my grandfather always says.
When I come home to my family, my partner or my best friends, I’m still the same Lisa. The harder part is actually allowing myself to slow down. I’m always thinking about the next project, the next piece of music, the next goal. Resting still feels uncomfortable to me, and that’s something I’m actively working on by communicating more openly with the people around me.
When did you realise that wanting more was something to embrace rather than apologise for?
I’m honestly still learning. Sometimes it’s difficult to claim your position. If I arrive at a large venue and there’s a male promoter or stage manager directing everything, my instinct is often to stay peaceful rather than immediately speak up about what I think or what I want.
I know many women in the music industry experience the same thing. At the same time, I’ve noticed more awareness from men in the industry over the past few months, and I think that’s encouraging. It’s important that women feel free to speak up too, but I’m still finding that confidence myself.
What kept you moving during the moments when success didn’t seem to be there?
I’ve definitely had periods when I felt really low. What always helped me was focusing on my health. Going for walks in nature, cooking good meals, going to the gym and taking care of my mental health.
Whenever those things are in place, I know I’ll get through those difficult moments. It’s really about finding that inner peace and listening to what my body needs, rather than always chasing what I want.
What advice would you give women who struggle to trust their own desires?
Talk to your girlfriends. Sometimes I feel embarrassed about my own desires, but then I talk to my best friends about them and, honestly, 99% of the time they feel exactly the same way. Once you’ve said something out loud to the people you trust most, it becomes much easier to own it. That’s always my first step.
Finally, if you could manifest one dream collaboration, who would it be?
VTSS. The moment you said “collaboration”, I already knew my answer. I’m obsessed with her. I absolutely love what she’s doing. I’m manifesting it.