Sophia Ziskin, aka FIFI, swears there’s a direct correlation between a crowd’s energy levels and the number of people twerking. “If people feel like they can twerk to the song that’s playing, the energy is at 100,” the LA-based DJ says. “I always go for some reggaeton/afrobeats. Love some chunky house, too. Love mixing some AJ Tracey with an afro beat! Skillibeng, Spice, Shenseea, you know the vibe.”
CULTURED caught up with Ziskin after the opening of Cento Raw Bar, for which she was tapped—It Girl that she is—to curate the guest list with the same care as the tunes. “The opening of Cento Raw Bar was a long time coming,” Ziskin says of the collaboration. “It feels really good to have it open to the public and seen by the world! Celia Babini and I were brought on almost a year ago. Watching people enjoy the space as much as we do has been very satisfying.”
As for being called an It Girl? “It’s very nice,” she says. “Although, I don’t quite get it. But I’m happy to be given that title by the divas of IG. Thanks girls!” For CULTURED’s latest Muse Report, the rising star shares her muses—the sounds, scents, and sights that keep her moving.
THE FILM
“My favorite film of all time is Plein Soleil or Purple Noon. It’s the Italian/French OG Talented Mr. Ripley. I remember watching it when I was super young, because my mom loves Alain Delon. It’s just stunning and so fun to watch.”
THE SCENT
“I have so many, it’s actually a problem. But my signature scent is Comme des Garçons Monocle Scent One: Hinoki [Perfumer: Antoine Maisondieu]. It’s got all of my favorite scents combined: peppery, woody, grassy, but still a bit sweet. It just smells like the earth, which feels very grounding.”
THE PAINTING
“I love Edward Hopper. My favorite painting by him is Soir Bleu. I wrote a play about it in college that will never see the light of day. I tend to gravitate towards realism in painting and art.”
THE BOOK
“I love Sun Ra’s biography. It’s called Space Is The Place. I don’t read much fiction. I’m currently reading a book called Last Night A DJ Saved My Life that I’m loving so far.”
THE SHADE
“Honestly, anything that makes me look sun-kissed is my go-to. I love Saie Dew Blush in Spicy. I put it on my cheeks and forehead. I love mixing that blush with the Typology bronzer that I put in my moisturizer. I just love to look dewy and glowy all the time!”
THE SONG
My favorite song? This is the hardest question ever. I don’t even know where to begin, so I made you a playlist of my most favorites.
CULTURED X FIFI – Listen here.
in your life?
