Introducing: No Scrubz Worldwide
Empowering female, trans, & non-binary talent through the power of music and community
No Scrubz Worldwide began as a simple Ladies’ Night but quickly transformed into something much bigger. Recognizing the need for more diversity and inclusivity in the scene, founder Shakilo Barton, decided to make space—literally—by including these people in the lineup at future No Scrubz events.
Since then, No Scrubz has welcomed over 100 DJs and performers to its stage, giving emerging talent the chance to shine while building a community that’s supportive, safe, and undeniably fun. What began as a local event has evolved into a global movement, proving that when you make space for others, the vibes are unstoppable.
The collective was inspired by the need for a more inclusive and representative space within the electronic music world, where marginalized voices could shine and thrive both on and off the decks. Their vision is to build a network of femme, trans, and non-binary talent all around the world to help build equity in the music industry.
What is the primary mission or goal of your collective?
Our primary goal is to amplify the often unheard voices of femme, trans, and non-binary talent, giving them the spotlight they deserve. Whether it’s on stage, in the studio, or behind the scenes, their aim is to make sure no one is left out.
Can you share some key milestones or achievements your collective has reached?
Celebrating nearly eight incredible years, we have worked with over 100 femme, trans, and non-binary individuals in their growing network. One of our biggest achievements is launching No Boundariez, a learning cohort that brings femme, trans, and non-binary artists together each month to connect, learn, and create. We’ve also expanded into New York City, where our Brooklyn chapter hosts monthly Open Decks events.
What core values drive your collective’s activities?
Equity, Empowerment, and Community. We’re passionate about booking emerging femme, trans, and non-binary talent for every event they produce, book, or collaborate on, creating vital opportunities for underrepresented voices. By hosting workshops, community events, and sharing learning resources, we empower DJs and other creatives to grow their skills and confidence. Above all, we’re dedicated to fostering a truly inclusive and accessible community that brings together creatives and partygoers in cities around the world.
How would you describe the electronic music community in your region?
In both Las Vegas and New York, the electronic music scene is extremely diverse. From house and trap to dubstep and bass, there’s something for everyone. What truly unites us is the love for club music—if it makes people dance, it’s a hit. Our community thrives on movement, so no matter the genre, as long as it has a groove, people are here for it. Our Party People (what we call our greater community) know No Scrubz for bringing an open-format vibe that’s uniquely femme, trans, and non-binary coded. Through clever instrumentation, iconic samples, and a commitment to inclusivity, we keep the dance floor alive and welcoming for everyone.
Are there any notable trends or developments within the community?
We’re seeing more events that welcome beginners with open decks, mixers, and workshops—spaces where new DJs can spin, learn, and vibe with the community. For us, the last two years have been all about b2bs. There’s something magical about two DJs teaming up and building an entirely new set live on the spot. It’s unpredictable, full of surprises, and a perfect way to show off the unique chemistry between artists. Our community and even partners like Meow Wolf and Zappos stay on the lookout for these epic pairings and they’re a blast to see in real time.
What unique challenges or opportunities exist for the electronic music scene in your region?
One of the biggest challenges is the lack of diversity on local lineups. Too often, the same types of artists dominate the stage, leaving femme, trans, and non-binary talent overlooked. On the flip side, because the mainstream scene doesn’t always make space, marginalized communities have built their own. These spaces are typically community-driven, fueled by passion, and brimming with creativity which results in something deeper than just an electronic event. People become family.
What impact has your collective had on the electronic music scene?
By prioritizing inclusivity and intentionality in our bookings, we’re setting a standard for how lineups can reflect the diversity of the community they serve. Beyond just music, we’ve fostered a network where artists feel supported and audiences feel welcome. The impact goes beyond the stage: our learning cohorts, fundraisers, and collaborations with partners have not only amplified marginalized voices but have also inspired other collectives and venues to rethink their approach. We’re proving that diversity isn’t just an ethical choice—it’s an essential ingredient for a thriving and innovative music culture.
What are your plans and goals moving forward?
Beyond producing exclusively femme, trans, and non-binary shows, we are laser focused on our Learning Cohort, No Boundariez aka NoBo, and our very 1st Cohort Camp set for May 2025. We’re bringing our Las Vegas artists to New York City to connect our communities in a whole new way. The camp will feature workshops, visits to music studios and offices, and so much more—it’s all about learning, collaboration, and building bridges between scenes. We’re also doubling down on expanding our NYC chapter, spotlighting local talent and creating opportunities for new and upcoming artists to perform, network, and thrive in both Las Vegas and New York.
How do you envision the growth and evolution of your collective in the coming years?
Our dream is to expand No Scrubz into a global hub that champions femme, trans, and non-binary talent—offering educational initiatives, a robust touring roster, and large-scale events that redefine the electronic music landscape and create meaningful opportunities for underrepresented voices.
