IN CONVERSATION WITH SARAH STORY
Interview by Samo Šajn
Sarah Story is a DJ, BBC Radio 1 presenter, and champion of new music. She’s performed at major festivals around the world, runs her label STORIES, and in 2026 will support on coverage at the BRITs, hosting live interviews and all the backstage action. With her mix of DJing, broadcasting, and artist development, Sarah is shaping the future of dance music while expanding her presence as a versatile presenter.
Photography by Dan Reid
You’ve had an incredible year performing at festivals and clubs worldwide. What do you love most about DJing live?
I love the energy you get back from the crowds. You get that instant connection with people, which you don’t physically get when you’re on the radio. The adrenaline rush can be wild, and I love the challenge of playing in front of big crowds.
Running your own label, STORIES, alongside touring and radio must be hectic. How do you balance it all?
It’s very hectic. I have to be super organised and constantly in contact with my team to make sure everything’s running smoothly. I’m always on the hunt for new music, which means I speak to a lot of artists on a daily basis. Time off is crucial. In the past, I haven’t been so great at switching off and have burnt out, but going to health retreats and hitting the gym really helps.
You’ve spent years discovering and supporting new artists on Radio 1. Has your approach to championing talent changed over time?
I think it’s always stayed the same. It’s all about the quality of the music. Even if no one else believes in an artist at the time, I’ll stick to my guns because I believe they’re good. I’ve backed artists like Kettama, Sammy Virji, William Kiss, and Chloe Caillet from the beginning, even Kenya Grace when she had hardly any followers and no one knew who she was. We would chat on Instagram years ago. I wish I’d signed her then, but sadly I didn’t have a label at the time.
Photography by Cleo Leather
This year you’ll be front and centre at the BRITs. What excites you most about presenting on such a big stage?
The BRITs is such an iconic part of British music history, so to play a part in that means so much. I’ve been watching it since I was a kid. Hosting the nominations show was so exciting because I was the person announcing the names to the world. On the night of the BRITs, I’ll be interviewing the winners once they come off stage. It’s called the ‘Winners Walk’. I feel like the excitement levels are going to be high on that walk, so anything could happen.
You’re known for making artists feel relaxed and comfortable in interviews. Where does that skill come from?
I think being a Northerner, we like to have a laugh, and I always treat everyone the same no matter who they are. I give the artist and their team a hug before we start the interview, and if you can instantly make them feel at ease, you generally get the best out of them. Interviewing people is one of my favourite things to do.
Looking back at 2025, with festival sets, awards, and international tours, was there a moment that really made you feel proud of how far you’ve come?
I think touring around Australia and seeing in the New Year playing at Lost Paradise in Sydney was a real “pinch me” moment. The crowd was massive, and I just couldn’t believe I was playing on the other side of the world and people knew who I was. Winning DJ of the Year at the Northern Music Awards was also wild.
Dance music is always evolving. What trends or sounds are you most excited about right now?
I really like that garage, hip house, deep house, and funky house are back, fun music that gives nostalgia. House music has slowed down a bit, and female vocals are back with a bang. I think the sounds of D Stone, Chris Stussy, Prunk, and Luke Alessi are really classy and will stand the test of time. I’ve always been a big fan of Sally C’s music too.
Photography by Dan Reid
Having both DJ and presenting experience, do you find skills from one side help the other?
I think gaining experience from presenting on the radio and public speaking definitely gives me more confidence when I get behind the decks in front of a big crowd. Sometimes when you’re terrified, you just have to think “mind over matter.” Only I know I’m nervous, so I just smile through the nerves.
People are starting to see you as more than just a DJ. How do you approach being a public figure outside the music scene?
Broadcasters are here to educate as well as entertain, so whatever I’m hired to do, I always try to do it with integrity and purpose. I want young people who follow me to aspire to achieving something meaningful. I’ve turned down big opportunities because I didn’t believe in their ethos, and I’ve never looked back.
Looking ahead to 2026, whether it’s DJing, radio, or presenting, what’s the chapter you’re most excited to write next?
I’m excited to release music myself and tap into the artist side of me a bit more. I spent a lot of time in 2024 and 2025 signing and building other artists, so I’m looking forward to pouring that energy into myself this year. I’ve been writing lots over the winter period, so expect some new music very soon.
