Getting Ready with Dr. Rubinstein: Autism, Vinyl, and the Raw Energy Behind Her Boiler Room Set
- Filip
- Mar 6
- 3 min read
Dr. Rubinstein—the name synonymous with raw, underground electronic music—is back with another iconic Boiler Room set. But this time, before she steps behind the decks at Glitch Festival, we catch up with the DJ, producer, and vinyl enthusiast in her hotel room, where she opens up about her music, autism, and the challenges she faces in the electronic music industry. It’s a candid conversation about music’s transformative power, the misjudgments she encounters due to autism, and her unflinching approach to self-expression in a world that often demands conformity.
In this intimate moment before Dr. Rubinstein’s Boiler Room appearance, we explore how she prepares for a set, why vinyl is her preferred medium, and the deeper message behind her sound. Get ready for a deep dive into the personal, the powerful, and the unapologetically real side of DJing and music production.
Vinyl DJing: Why Dr. Rubinstein Prefers the Analog Sound
Dr. Rubinstein’s approach to DJing is different from the norm. While many DJs rely on digital platforms, she chooses vinyl. Why? Because vinyl isn’t just a medium; it’s an experience. "The tactile nature of vinyl makes it personal," she explains. "It’s not just about the music—it’s about connecting with each track in a way that’s physical, grounded, and real."
As a vinyl DJ, Dr. Rubinstein curates each set with intention. She meticulously selects her records, carefully crafting the sonic journey she’s about to take her audience on. It’s a ritual that defines her career. "Each record is a part of my story," she says. "When I drop a track, it’s more than just sound—it’s a message, a moment."
Living with Autism: How Dr. Rubinstein Challenges Misconceptions
While Dr. Rubinstein’s talent speaks for itself, there’s more to her story than just being a talented DJ. She opens up about her experience of living with autism and the frequent misjudgments she faces because of it. "People assume that because I don't engage socially in the same way, I don't care," she says. "But it’s not about that. It's just how I process the world."
As a neurodivergent artist in an industry often focused on social norms and networking, Dr. Rubinstein stands as a powerful example of how neurodiversity can be a strength. "Autism has shaped the way I interact with music and the world," she explains. "I approach everything differently—sometimes, that means people don't understand me. But that’s my power."
Dr. Rubinstein’s experience underscores the importance of embracing neurodiversity, especially in the music industry. "We need to create spaces for everyone, regardless of how we process the world," she says.
Boiler Room and Glitch Festival: The Ultimate DJing Experience
As a DJ, few platforms are as iconic as Boiler Room. The intimate, high-energy sets broadcast globally have become synonymous with cutting-edge electronic music. "The energy at Boiler Room is unmatched," Dr. Rubinstein says. "It’s about connecting with the crowd on a visceral level. You’re not just playing music—you’re feeding off their energy and creating something in real-time."
For Dr. Rubinstein, Boiler Room is more than just a performance—it’s a space to connect deeply with fans, a place where she can be unapologetically herself. "In that moment, it’s just me, the records, and the crowd. It’s pure expression."
Dr. Rubinstein’s Call for Neurodiversity and Inclusivity in the Music Industry
As a prominent figure in the electronic music scene, Dr. Rubinstein is keenly aware of the barriers that neurodivergent artists face. "There is a real need for greater representation of neurodiversity in music," she says. "Autistic people like me often feel like outsiders in an industry that prioritizes social connection and performance over authenticity."
For Dr. Rubinstein, embracing neurodiversity isn’t just about representation—it’s about broadening the creative landscape of electronic music. "We need diversity in all its forms. Neurodivergent artists bring something unique to the table, and that’s something the industry should celebrate, not overlook."
The Art of DJing: Dr. Rubinstein’s Approach to Self-Expression
At the heart of Dr. Rubinstein’s music is a relentless drive to express herself authentically. "When I’m behind the decks, I’m not just playing a set—I’m speaking a language," she says. "The vinyl is my voice, and it’s the only way I can truly communicate."
For Dr. Rubinstein, DJing is a deeply personal form of communication, one that bypasses words and connects on a more primal level. "Music says things that words can’t," she explains. "It’s a way for me to share my experiences, my feelings, and my soul with others."
