Meet the Musicians
Shaquille Rayes
Shaq Rayes is a Manchester-bred singer, songwriter, and producer known for his diverse musical style. Growing up with DJ parents, music was in his DNA, drawing from 90s club beats and Latin dance rhythms. Steeped in Manchester's vibrant music scene, he blends NeoSoul, Alt R&B, Afro, and Latin influences into a catchy urban pop vibe. Shaq's lyrics touch on love fantasies, adulting struggles, life's fragility, and identity exploration. As an indie artist, his debut singles 'Money' and 'Remedy' garnered a whopping 900 million views on TikTok. Currently, he's making waves composing for major K-Pop stars like EXO and NCT, solidifying his name in the South Korean music realm.
Jasmin Issaka
Jasmin Issaka, a kaleidoscopic artist, is a psychedelic illustrator by day and a soulful singer-songwriter with jazz-infused guitar prowess by night. Nicknamed "Jazzy," her vocals are a passionate cascade, etching life's highs and lows in poetic verses. Live, she radiates pure magic and charisma, gracing stages like Matt and Fred’s Women in Jazz Week and the 2023 Manchester International Festival. Each note is an ode to her dedication and artistry, offering a sanctuary for the soul in a noisy world. As part of the 2023 Factory International Music cohort, she's set to release her EP 'Therapy' in November 2023, enriching her musical journey.
Rhea Marcia
Rhea Marcia is a songwriter and singer-songwriter. She is a 23-year-old woman of Jamaican descent who was raised in Birmingham, England. Her initial musical influences were from listening to Jazz and soul music, and she became regarded as a "songbird" as she began developing and perfecting her skill. Rhea is a storyteller, and her Christian upbringing plays a significant and distinct role in her work.
David Rey
David Rey is an emerging Manchester-based rapper known for his unique blend of 90s rap vibes and contemporary, hard-hitting lyrics. Hailing from Hulme, Manchester, and dubbed "KING" by fellow artists, he signed with Mic Check Management in early 2019, making significant strides in his career. His distinctive style, influenced by artists like Skepta, Giggs, Rick Ross, and J. Cole, sets him apart in the local music scene. In 2019, David toured with London grime legends Prez-T and Flirta D, garnering attention in the London music scene. Known for sold-out performances that electrify venues, he attracts fans from across Manchester. With his unique sound and standout artistry, 2023 promises to be a year of ascent for David Rey.
DJ FYA
DJ FYA, a dynamic multi-genre DJ, boasts a specialized prowess in afrobeat, amapiano, dancehall, and R&B. Her electrifying sets have graced prestigious events such as Manchester's iconic Parklife festival, setting the stage ablaze with her diverse musical selection. She's been the sonic heartbeat of remarkable gatherings like the Northern Power Women's Awards, IWD Fest, and BobExpo, the UK's grandest black business exhibition. Dj FYA's musical alchemy transcends boundaries, blending genres to create euphoric experiences. With an innate ability to read the crowd and set the perfect mood, she's become a sought-after name, consistently leaving an indelible mark at every performance.