Remix chats with 81-year-old DJ SuperGran ahead of her debut at New Zealand’s biggest festival

Sometimes it feels like we’re expected to have it all figured out in our 20s—burning ourselves out trying to do everything, chasing every ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ experience before we turn 30.

But breaking the mould entirely is 81-year-old Molly Pardoe, aka DJ SuperGran, who’s set to take the stage for a 10-minute set at New Zealand’s largest multi-day festival. As part of Rhythm and Vines partnership with SuperGrans Tairāwhiti, the initiative encourages the community to build confidence in trying new skills. 

Ahead of her debut, Remix got an exclusive chat with the rising DJ herself to hear all about her practice and the art of mastering a new skill.

You’ve been taken under the wing of Gisborne DJ Jamil Śabda. How would you describe the experience of learning from him? 

It's exciting and kind of reverses the SuperGrans role of sharing skills with the younger generation; now it's my turn to get tips from an experienced, young talented musician.  And just enjoy the experience.

Now that you’re in DJ mode, which genre are you most drawn to, and what vibe will you be bringing to the decks?   

In my younger days, it was rock n roll and Elvis, the Beatles, Rod Stewart and good Jazz. Gosh, that’s ageing me.  I love most kinds of music. I’m definitely having to prove to my grandchildren that I can dance to their kind of music too!  

SuperGrans Tairāwhiti is known for empowering people through practical skills and intergenerational learning. How has the trust’s ethos shaped your journey to becoming DJ SuperGran, and what does it mean to share this moment with the festival and community? 

Compassion is the heart of SuperGrans Tairawhiti. Our amazing Board brings their business and life skills to the table.  They generously volunteer their time, so for me, this is just a way to show my appreciation of our partnership with RNV. 

What would you say to anyone who thinks it’s ‘too late’ to learn something new or try something out of their comfort zone?  

My key message to the youngies and not-so-young is that age is no barrier to having fun. Life is so short, before you know it, in a blink you’ll be 80, so go and enjoy all those moments! This DJ stint is definitely out of my comfort zone, but hey, it is for a good cause, and I’m going to have fun.  

 I see that you’ve prepared an original track for your set; what was it like creating music for the first time?  

I’m fortunate to have these talented musical creators right on my doorstep. How lucky is that? I can’t take credit for the track; we will be giving our best shot for sure.  But I can say, collectively, we can make music!  

As this is your debut behind the decks, how are you getting into DJ mode before your big moment?  

Trying not to worry about it too much. Obviously, I need to get in the groove, so a wee bit of practise beforehand is the plan!

Have festivals always been part of your life, or is this something new for you?  

I’m usually hosting grandchildren and friends visiting Gizzy from out of town coming to enjoy RNV—they camp out at the venue, maybe get rained out, muddied as, come to me for showers, do the laundry, enjoy a comfy bed to catch up on sleep and away again to the festival!

 Is there anything we haven’t asked that you’d like to share with our Remix readers?  

Sincere thank you to RNV for choosing SuperGrans as a partner in this amazing event. Welcome to Gizzy everyone, come and enjoy the hospitality we have on offer, hopefully lots of sunshine and happy days!