Sara Landry slams accusations of being an ‘industry plant’ and details decade-long DJ career

In a recent Viral TikTok video, Sara Landry has clapped back at critics who claim her success is the result of industry plant connections.

Sara Landry has had enough of the “industry plant” accusations. With a mix of defiance and honesty, Landry opened up about her journey. From a self-taught NYC DJ to playing stages like Tomorrowland and EDCLV, Sara Landry is definitely not someone to mess with.

The term “industry plant” has long existed to describe artists who earn their status exclusively through nepotism or financial backing. While often directed at pop and hip-hop acts, the label has started to creep into the electronic music world. For Landry, it’s an unfair and misogynistic claim, and she’s made it clear she won’t stand for it anymore.

In her lengthy and candid TikTok video, Landry laid out the real story of her rise to prominence. Starting from humble beginnings, her musical passion began in 2014 when she taught herself DJing while living in NYC. After a few years of self-doubt, practice, and struggle, Landry moved back to Austin, Texas, where she focused on perfecting her craft. Despite working a full-time corporate job, she dedicated her free time to learning Ableton, eventually taking a sound design course with mentor Francis Preve.

Landry’s first gig came during SXSW in 2016, but the road to success was far from smooth. In 2017, she landed her first residency, it seemed like all momentum could come to a halt during the pandemic. Instead, Landry pushed forward and hosted underground raves, streaming live sets and promoting her name while building a fan base.

After gaining attention for her mixes, Landry quickly expanded her bookings and earned a spot on the global map. Her first big break came when she was booked for Coachella 2020’s Yuma Tent, which was ultimately canceled by COVID-19. But Landry continued to grow her presence, particularly in Europe, where her industrial and hard techno sound resonated deeply.

Today, Landry stands as one of the hottest techno artists, preparing for her ETERNALISM tour in 2025 with stops at major venues like Brooklyn Mirage, Electric Forest, and EXIT Festival. Unquestionably, Landry has made one thing clear in her TikTok: “11 years of grinding, and don’t you fucking forget it.” As the techno scene continues embracing her sound, it’s clear that Sara Landry’s success isn’t a result of industry manipulation. Undoubtedly, it’s the product of hard work, determination, and pure talent.

About The Author

Ginger Ale

Having grown up just an earshot from Ultra Miami’s venue Bayfront Park, it was next to impossible for me not to fall in love with electronic music. My love for music was evidently strong enough for me to write my college essay on festival culture and continue attending Ultra for 12 consecutive years (still counting). As an avid traveler, I’m definitely not afraid to hop on a plane for a music event. My current bucket list festivals right now are Tomorrowland in Belgium, Cercle Festival in France, Kappa Futur in Italy, and Sonus in Croatia. Though the list could go on forever, some of my favorite artists are Franky Wah, BICEP, Cassian, and Mochakk.

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