Celebrating black women on international women's day

'International Women's Day' can feel like a strange day to celebrate, as a Black woman, so when Skiddle asked me to share 8 tracks by women who inspire me, it was quite clear to me that this would be a moment to spotlight and celebrate some incredible Black women making music today.

I chose these tracks because all of the artists really speak to my experience as a Black woman and make me feel seen. I feel like each of these women challenge the concept of genre, and break out of the ‘mould’ of what Black women are perceived to be in mass media, so inspiring. I appreciate each of them for unapologetically bringing their stories, softness and rage to the world, in their own way. Listen to my selections here.

Kicking things off with ‘anaiis - Moonlight’ this is my favourite track from her latest album, ‘Devotion & The Black Divine’. The strings, harmonies, synths and her conversational tone are just dreamy and I love the line ‘always divine in timing’. 

Next up, we’ve got ‘Ego Ella May - What You Waiting For’ from her upcoming album ‘Good Intentions’ out 20/03/2036. The percussive intro gets me moving straight away and then she starts to sing and her voice melts me. Ego Ella May is a beautiful soul who makes beautiful music and encourages us to slow down and live intentionally. Get to know! 

‘BINA. - Tracey Beaker’ - BINA. is a very important voice in our generation. She talks about the things we all shy away from, and has an immaculate style and stage presence. Listen to her EP ‘Chaos Is Her Name’ and make sure you keep an eye out for her touring because you need to be in the room.

‘Little Simz - Only (ft Lydia Kitto)’ - Bossa nova beat with piano with Little Simz on the mic, flawless. This song makes me feel like I’m walking around London on a beautiful sunny day with nowhere to be in a hurry. Welcome, spring! 

‘Yazmin Lacey - Legacy’ - I love music that talks about family, and tells stories, which this song does. This is a highlight track from Yazmin Lacey’s debut album ‘Voice Notes’. It always makes me emotional, thinking about grandparents who are no longer with us, but live on through the lessons and moments that we remember with them.

‘KOKOROKO - Never Lost’ - This is my favourite band, led by superstar trumpet player and vocalist Sheila Maurice-Grey and ‘Never Lost’ is my #OnRepeat track from the album. It has a beautiful message, it’s so hopeful. I remember meeting Sheila around 10 years ago maybe? In the early days of Steam Down when it was at Buster Mantis, my introduction to the ‘London Jazz Scene’. A very special and inspiring time!

‘Lynda Dawn - Love Is Callin’’ - Where do I even start with this woman? She is an angel with an angelic voice. Her 2024 album ‘11th Hour’ is like a history lesson, with so many cool 70s references and a flawless vocal with the versatility of Minnie Ripperton. This track is another mood-lifter. I was honoured to share the stage with Lynda Dawn when she toured in 2026, and looked forward to her show every night. We love, you Lynda Dawn! 

‘Celeste - Woman Of Faces’ - This song is epic, in true Celeste fashion, and the perfect title to close off my #IWD2026 curation. We were lucky enough to get in to her show at ‘The Dome’ in Liverpool and it was a night we will never forget. She was so honest and vulnerable and courageous. Listen til the final note for goosebumps!

So there's my round up of women who inspire me

While we're here, just in case you haven't heard the news yet, but my debut EP 'Mother's Arms' is out now and you can buy it here or listen to it here.