Jodie Harsh

Jodie Harsh, born Jay Clarke in Canterbury, Kent, adopted her stage name at 18 while studying at the London College of Fashion. Her persona emerged from the London drag scene, inspired by a critique of celebrity culture. She began her career by hosting parties at London venues, with her debut event taking place at the Soho Revue Bar. This early experience in nightlife laid the foundation for her later success as a DJ and promoter.

In 2010, Harsh established Room Service, a gay club brand that started in London and expanded internationally. As a promoter, she featured notable DJs like Honey Dijon. Initially taking to the decks due to budget constraints, her DJ reputation grew, leading to bookings across Europe and collaborations with fashion brands. A significant milestone occurred in 2016 when she launched Dollar Baby in East London, with Lady Gaga attending the opening night, further cementing her status in the club scene. In July 2021, Harsh co-launched Feel It, a club night in partnership with Omeara, which has hosted acclaimed artists such as Jessie Ware, Annie Mac, Eats Everything, Patrick Topping, and Charli XCX.

The pandemic in 2020 prompted Harsh to focus on music production and releasing her own tracks, in addition to livestreaming and podcasting. Her 2020 single “My House,” initially released under Another Rhythm records and later with Warner Music UK, gained significant popularity, becoming a trending sound on TikTok and featuring 61 British drag queens in its music video. This track became a post-lockdown anthem. She has released subsequent singles including “No Sleep,” “Good Time,” “Shock,” and “Hectic.” Harsh has also created remixes for artists such as Beyoncé, Fergie, Justin Timberlake, Sonny Fodera, Kylie Minogue, Years and Years, Charli XCX, Rina Sawayama, Fatboy Slim, and Sigala. In 2021, she signed a global publishing deal with Universal Music. Her music, including “My House” and “No Sleep,” has been featured on the BBC Radio 1 playlist. In 2024, she supported Troye Sivan on his UK/EU Something to Give Each Other Tour, opening at Wembley Arena. Beyond music, Harsh hosts the podcast ‘Life of the Party,’ featuring interviews with industry figures like Fatboy Slim and Annie Mac. In 2016, she appeared as herself in ‘Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie.’ She also made a guest appearance on ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race UK’ in 2021 and co-hosted BBC Radio 1’s ‘Dance Anthems.’ In May 2024, Faber & Faber acquired her memoir, ‘You Had to Be There,’ detailing her experiences in 2000s London nightlife, scheduled for release in autumn 2025.