Twitch
From Family Bands to House Beats: How One DJ Built a Thriving Musical Community During the Pandemic
When most people think of electronic music producers, they don't picture someone who started out singing blues and rock with their older brothers. But Magda Halina's unconventional path into the world of house music has shaped her into one of Twitch's most compelling DJ streamers, blending soulful grooves with cutting-edge electronic beats in ways that feel both nostalgic and fresh.
The Vancouver-born, California-raised artist didn't set out to become a Twitch sensation. Growing up as the youngest of four siblings in Orange County, she was surrounded by music from an early age. Her two guitar-playing brothers introduced her to funk, soul, and blues, and she spent her teenage years singing in their band. It wasn't until 2016, when she attended Lightning in a Bottle festival, that electronic music truly clicked for her. That experience sparked a five-year journey of teaching herself production and DJing from her bedroom, embracing the DIY ethos that would later define her streaming presence.
What sets Magda apart in the crowded world of electronic music is her commitment to "all things house" with a twist. Her sound incorporates the soul, funk, and groove elements from her musical upbringing, creating sets that feel both dancefloor-ready and emotionally resonant. She's not just mixing tracks; she's curating experiences that bridge the gap between underground house culture and accessible streaming entertainment. Her background as an Icon Collective alumni and co-founder of Audisoul demonstrates her serious commitment to the craft, but her sets never feel overly academic or pretentious.
Since launching her Twitch channel in April 2020, right as the pandemic was reshaping how people experienced live music, Magda has built a dedicated following of over 21,000 viewers. Her timing couldn't have been better – as clubs shuttered and festivals cancelled, she provided a virtual space where house music lovers could gather and dance together from their living rooms. Currently ranked #60 among Twitch DJs, she's achieved Twitch Partner status while maintaining an intimate, community-focused approach that feels more like hanging out with friends than watching a performance.
The journey from singing in steakhouses to spinning at some of LA's hottest clubs might sound like a typical DJ success story, but Magda's approach remains refreshingly grounded. Her streams blend technical skill with genuine personality, creating an atmosphere where newcomers to house music feel welcome while longtime fans discover new tracks and artists. In an era where many content creators chase viral moments, she's built something more sustainable: a genuine community united by their love for deep, soulful electronic music that makes you want to move.
