portfolio
Lady Shaka is a multifaceted DJ, music producer, and interdisciplinary artist whose rich heritage encompasses Samoan, Tokelauan, Mā'ohi (Tahitian), Māori, and Cape Verdean roots. Originally hailing from Aotearoa (New Zealand) and currently based in London, her artistic endeavors reflect both her queer identity as a fem queen and her profound connections to whenua (land) and moana (ocean). Through her innovative music and art, Lady Shaka seeks to decolonize dancefloors and re-indigenize club culture, challenging mainstream narratives with a soundscape that is deeply cultural, ancestral, and emblematic of the Pasifika experience.
In recognition of her contributions, Lady Shaka received the prestigious 'Creative New Zealand Award' at the 2023 Pacific Music Awards, celebrating her role in shaping contemporary music that transcends traditional genres within the Pacific Islander community. Her work epitomizes a seamless fusion of diverse musical influences, drawing heavily from her cultural upbringing and personal experiences.
As a dancer in her formative years, Lady Shaka regards music as a potent vessel for movement, communication, and storytelling, transforming electronic music into a contemporary yet indigenous art form.
Lady Shaka made a significant mark on the music scene in 2021 by representing Aotearoa at Boiler Room TV, a pivotal platform for global music. As part of the queer collective Filth, her debut performance was a heartfelt tribute to Pacific Island culture, positioning her as one of the first Pacific Islanders to DJ on this influential platform. Her performances have since garnered acclaim, including appearances at the Boiler Room Festival in London and Naarm (Melbourne), where she became one of the first artists to offer live mixes in Spatial Audio on Apple Music. Her talents have not gone unnoticed; she was recognized as one of the 'Best of 2021' by Boiler Room TV and served as a judge for the ‘Broadcast Lab competition.’
In 2019, Lady Shaka founded Pulotu Underworld, London's premier club night dedicated to celebrating Pacific Island music, culture, and artistry. This initiative has evolved into a global collective that not only showcases the vibrancy of Pacific cultures but also raises funds for relief efforts in the Pacific region through partnerships with platforms such as Keep Hush. Her collaborative efforts extend to queer collectives like Pxssy Palace, Misery, and Filth, and she has worked alongside esteemed artists and brands including IAMDDB, Stella McCartney, Slamjam, Puma, and Ed Curtis.Lady Shaka’s influence is further underscored by her features in prominent publications such as Dazed, DJ Mag, and Resident Advisor, and her extensive tours across Asia, Australasia, Europe, Canada, and Latin America. Through her artistry, Lady Shaka not only amplifies the voices of her communities but also invites listeners to engage with the broader narratives of identity, belonging, and cultural reclamation in contemporary music. By challenging the status quo and fostering inclusivity, she is not merely a performer but a pivotal figure in reshaping the cultural landscape of the global music scene.
Photographer: Holly Sarah Burgess