Shishani

Shishani is a multi award-winning artist whose versatility in music transcends genres and cultures. Deeply rooted in soul, indie, RnB, hiphop and jazz, Shishani continuously explores musical heritage from their motherland Namibia. Coming from both African and European descent, they are constantly creating new ways to bring these worlds together. A 'gentle warrior' at heart, Shishani possesses the rare ability to address weighty topics with both softness and determination. Shishani’s voice, both mystically light and emotionally powerful, carries timeless messages that resonate deeply with listeners. Their work has always been characterized by its thought-provoking, healing nature. Shishani’s new album “Whispers” is a personal journey inwards in learning how to listen to your inner voice. Musically, it’s a graceful mix of intimate songs that always carry depth and closeness.

Achievements:
2020 - Nominee Amsterdam Prijs voor de Kunst (Prize for the Arts), Netherlands
2017 - Winner Best Album in World Music Production, Netherlands
2016 - Winner Best Album in World Music Production, Netherlands
2014 - Finalist Radio France International Awards, France
2013 - Winner Singer-Songwriter Competition “Mooie Noten” Amsterdam, Netherlands
2012 - Winner “Last Band Standing” competition, Namibia
2012 - Song “Minority” nominated for 2 awards at Namibian Annual Music Awards

Shishani has performed internationally at Glastonbury Festival (UK), Afrika Festival Wurzburg (Germany), Amsterdam Roots Festival, Lake of Stars (Malawi) and various countries including Kenya, South Africa, Morocco, Russia, USA, India, Moldova, Latvia, France, Czech Republic, Poland, Ireland, Spain, Italy, Greece, South Korea, China, Jordan and her home countries, Netherlands, Belgium and Namibia.
Shishani is founder, producer, songwriter and lead vocalist of Miss Catharsis (2019), a unique group centralizing women & nonbinary people of colour. Shishani is co-founder, lead vocalist and composer of Namibian Tales (2015) an acoustic quartet delving into the musical heritage of Namibia. With Namibian Tales, Shishani led a unique international project with UNESCO and the Museums Association of Namibia on safeguarding cultural heritage through archiving and producing new music in collaboration with San communities in Namibia. This inspiring project toured internationally.

Shishani is also co-founder, vocalist and songwriter of Shakuar, a group combining live electronica with traditional instruments and enchanting voices, exploring artistic and spiritual expressions. In 2021, Shishani founded Sisterhood: a group of 11 female & nonbinary artists who highlight a shared heritage between Indonesia, Namibia & Surinam through the Dutch colonial past.

“Shishani is a singer that gives hope. Their songs have a positive message though they doesn’t shy away from touching on sore points through statements and lyrics. Musically, Shishani is a delight. Such emotion, elegance and eloquence and such beautiful accompaniment on guitar.”