In the dynamic world of electronic music, few artists have managed to captivate audiences while embracing authenticity as powerfully as SHERELLE. Emerging from Walthamstow, East London, SHERELLE is not just another DJ and producer; she has become a beacon of hope and resilience for many in the dance music community. With a new album titled With A Vengeance, released unexpectedly, her music encapsulates a raw energy that speaks to both joy and struggle. As she prepares for an eagerly anticipated show at London's historic Roundhouse, one marvels at how SHERELLE's journey has made her a crucial figure in modern U.K. music—an artist focused not only on her sound but also on her community's health and well-being.
SHERELLE's ascent to prominence in the electronic scene began with a viral Boiler Room set in 2019, which earned her a legion of fans and significant bookings. Demonstrating a unique blend of jungle, footwork, and breakbeat, she carved a niche that both honors classic roots and innovates for contemporary ears. Critics have lauded her for fostering a revival of these genres, integrating fresh perspectives that align with today's cultural and societal shifts.
Released through London-based label Method 808, With A Vengeance features ten tracks that reflect her journey through emotional turbulence and professional challenges. “I was in a good headspace, and had chosen things in life to make sure that I was looking after myself,” SHERELLE expressed during an interview at the BBC Radio 6 Music Festival.
Her single, “XTC Suspended,” explores the complexities of mental health, encapsulating moments of both burnout and the struggles of maintaining happiness for her audience. Through her music, she not only entertains but also ignites conversation about mental health in the high-pressure world of performance.
One significant aspect of SHERELLE's mission is her commitment to making music more accessible. During her current tour, ticket prices for her shows are deliberately kept low, capped at £10 ($13). This decision is rooted in a desire to foster inclusivity for all music lovers, especially amidst rising living costs in the U.K. “I’m glad to add something authentic back into a space that can feel quite manufactured at times,” she reflects, showcasing her dedication to not just performance, but to the wellbeing of her fans.
Growing up in a working-class background influenced SHERELLE's outlook on music and its accessibility. She is deeply involved in community initiatives aimed at elevating underrepresented voices in the industry. In 2021, she founded BEAUTIFUL, a collective supporting Black and LGBTQIA+ creators by facilitating workshops and educational opportunities. Her resolve highlights the need for greater investment in music education—a sentiment echoed by other artists advocating for structured support to nurture future talent.
Behind the pulsing beats and vibrant mixes lies SHERELLE's journey through mental health challenges often experienced by many artists. During a critically demanding period in 2023, she battled not only the pressures of a rising career but also silent struggles with depression. “That time was a blur,” she recalls, underscoring the importance of self-care and personal reflection amidst the chaos of touring and creating.
SHERELLE's candidness about her emotional experiences provides a refreshing contrast to the often-glamorized narratives of success in the music industry. Her story serves as an essential reminder that vulnerability can coexist with professionalism and creativity.
As SHERELLE navigates her recovery, music has played a transformative role. Inspired by soul and funk legends such as Earth, Wind & Fire and jazz flutist Bobbi Humphrey, she credits this period for revitalizing her creativity. Adopting new studio practices has also contributed to her growth as an artist.
“I was just pissing out tunes left, right, and center,” she laughs, sharing how setting new workflow strategies made her more productive. This creative liberation resulted in With A Vengeance, an album that’s both a personal and musical exploration of her evolving identity.
SHERELLE views her career as an intersection of art, curation, and activism. This holistic approach is particularly crucial in today's climate, where the music industry grapples with authenticity versus commercialism. She has taken it upon herself to lead the charge for change, advocating for artists to receive equitable compensation while also prioritizing communal well-being over profit.
A pivotal moment will come with her show at the Roundhouse in London on April 11th, which serves as the grand finale of her SHERELLELAND tour. This event is a culmination of her commitment to creating spaces where communities can come together without financial barrier, reinforcing her belief in the power of music as a unifying force.
SHERELLE's journey encapsulates the evolution of a modern artist who not only creates art but navigates the challenges that come with it. By fostering inclusiveness through affordable shows and advocating for mental health awareness, she embodies a progressive mindset necessary for the future of the music industry. As her new album With A Vengeance makes waves, audiences worldwide can expect not only an audio experience rich in tradition and innovation but also a powerful message of resilience and community.
SHERELLE is a U.K.-based producer, DJ, and curator known for her contributions to the electronic and dance music scene, particularly in jungle, footwork, and breakbeat genres.
With A Vengeance is SHERELLE's debut album, featuring ten tracks that explore her personal journey through mental health and artistic expression.
To increase accessibility and ensure that her shows are open to all, SHERELLE has capped ticket prices at £10, reflecting her commitment to community engagement.
SHERELLE has openly discussed her struggles with depression, emphasizing the importance of self-care and vulnerability as part of her artistic journey. She aims to raise awareness about mental health issues faced by artists.
SHERELLE founded BEAUTIFUL, a community for Black and LGBTQIA+ creators, offering workshops and educational opportunities, signifying her commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity in the arts.
SHERELLE's next performance is set for April 11th at the Roundhouse in London, marking the conclusion of her SHERELLELAND tour.
SHERELLE’s rise and authenticity challenge stereotypes in the industry and inspire others to follow suit, reinforcing the idea that music's power lies in its ability to connect, heal, and elevate voices often left unheard.