For almost two decades, Jenny Greene has been one of the defining voices in Irish dance music. From her early days on Pulse FM at just 17 to becoming a household name through Electric Disco on RTÉ 2FM, Greene has consistently adapted, evolved and pushed herself creatively.
Now preparing to headline the upcoming Headfest festival, she reflects on the changing Irish dance scene, the atmosphere of Irish crowds and why challenging herself remains essential after nearly 20 years behind the decks.
You’ve been part of Irish dance music culture since your teens. When you look at the scene now compared to when you started on Pulse FM at 17, what changes excite you most?
It’s hard to know where to start — so much has changed. When I first started there were a lot less females in the scene. We still have a way to go, but it’s great seeing so many incredibly talented young women not just DJing, but also producing and running club nights.
You’ve played everything from underground clubs to sold-out shows with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra. How does your mindset change depending on the size and style of the crowd?
With the RTÉ Concert Orchestra it’s a huge stage show. It’s probably easier in terms of planning the setlist. People going to those shows are going for the classics and we all know that.
When I’m playing smaller underground clubs, I never know going in who the crowd is going to be, so there’s always an air of nerves trying to suss out the vibe and what they’re into.
Electric Disco has been a Saturday night institution for so many people over the years. What do you think has kept audiences connected to the show for nearly two decades?
When the show first started it was very much a dance classics show. It felt like a lovely moment at the time because a lot of the music hadn’t been played on radio in years.
As time went by, more stations started doing similar shows so I felt a need to expand the show into newer dance and electronic music. I started slowly introducing a few new tracks each week and over time the full show became new music.
I felt the show needed to engage a younger audience too in order for it to grow and thankfully it has over the years.
Your Olympia Theatre production in 2025 felt like another evolution in your career. Are you consciously pushing yourself into new creative territory at this stage, or does it happen naturally?
I think when you’re doing something for so long you need to find new ways to challenge yourself. You never want to find yourself always sitting in the same space — well, I don’t anyway.
There is always room to grow and push yourself. A crowd can feel the energy if you’re just going through the motions.
You’ve shared stages with huge international acts, but you’ve always stayed deeply connected to Irish audiences and festivals. What is it about Irish crowds — especially at regional gigs like Headford — that keeps you coming back?
It’s always difficult to put into words exactly what it is about an Irish crowd, but it’s the atmosphere they bring. There’s a feeling — whether it’s a festival field or a dance floor — that they are always up for it and almost willing you on.
