Check Out Marta Thiessen’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Marta Thiessen.

Hi Marta, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?

I was born in Warsaw, Poland, and moved to Canada at age 4. Growing up, I was drawn to music and theatre, which earned me a scholarship to Vancouver Film School with dreams of becoming an actress. But everything changed when I auditioned for a band as a keyboardist, despite having little experience. After landing the gig, I took a big risk and left my scholarship to tour with the band, opening for acts like The Killers, Chromeo, and Simple Plan. During that time, I discovered DJing, quit the band, and moved to LA to pursue it full-time, rebranding as GRLSKOUT. My career as a DJ took off, and over the past decade, I’ve played at Fashion Week in Paris, New York, and LA, as well as main stages at major festivals like Beyond Wonderland and Nocturnal Wonderland. I now hold residencies at top LA nightclubs and DJ exclusive events for luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Lamborghini, Rolls Royce, Versace, and Formula 1. I’ve also had the privilege of opening for DJs like Diplo, David Guetta, Benny Benassi, Dillon Francis, KSHMR, and Bob Moses, just to name a few.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t been a smooth road. Leaving my scholarship at Vancouver Film School to join a band was a big risk, and it really upset my parents at first. They didn’t get it, but everything changed when they saw me play a stadium tour with Simple Plan—it was a huge moment for me. I’ll never forget my mom, in tears after the show, saying, “I will never doubt you again.” Transitioning from the band to DJing was another challenge, and moving to LA to rebrand as GRLSKOUT felt like another big leap. But every struggle along the way has shaped me, and I’m thankful for those lessons.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a DJ and producer, primarily known for playing house and melodic techno. What I’m most proud of is the journey from being a keyboardist in a band to becoming a DJ and producer. It’s especially rewarding when my music connects with people—whether it’s seeing the crowd vibe at major festivals or hearing how my tracks have made an impact on someone. What sets me apart is my live performance. Having worked in both band and solo settings, I’ve developed a unique ability to read the room, adapt, and bring something special to every show. I’m always focused on evolving my sound and pushing myself as an artist.

How do you think about happiness?
I love performing and watching people have a good time. I also really love to inspire people to take risks and truly do what they love.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.grlskout.com
• Instagram: http://instagram.com/grlskout
• Facebook: http://facebook.com/grlskout
• Twitter: http://twitter.com/grlskout
• Youtube: http://youtube.com/grlskout
• soundcloud: http://soundcloud.com/grlskout