DJ Tigerlily uses her gender — and attitude — to advantage in a male-dominated industry

DARA Hayes — aka DJ Tigerlily — makes no apologies for her brash approach to her music.

Dara Hayes aka DJ Tigerlily plays her gender to her advantage.

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DARA Hayes makes no apologies for her brash approach to her music.

The 25-year-old Sydneysider better known as DJ Tigerlily said women had to use gender to their advantage.

Dara Hayes knows all performers have their critics, and she doesn’t let it stop her pursuing her career.

“No matter what you wear, what type of music you play, if you’re an incredible performer or shy on stage, there are always going to be critics,” Hayes said.

“At the end of the day you have to be smart about your understanding of being a female in a male-dominated industry and play to your advantage.

DJ Tigerlily will soon tour Asia, the US and Europe.

“If you can do that then you’re going to have a great, successful career.”

Since being runner-up in the 2011 Your Shot DJ contest, Hayes has been in demand around the world.

She will tour Asia, the US and Europe later this year.