This March, for International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, The Orchard launched a campaign to amplify the voices of nearly 30 revolutionary artists from across the world, whose innovative sounds transcend borders and inspire generations. Listen to the artists at our Rising Women playlist here and learn more about them below.
Javiera Mena (Chile)
Javiera Mena is a pioneering figure in Chilean music, known for her innovative contributions to Latin pop. With over 15 years of experience, she has established herself as one of the most influential artists in the Latin music scene. Her debut album Esquemas Juveniles (2006) launched her career, and she has since released four studio albums, including Mena (2010), Otra Era (2014), and Espejo (2018). Nominated for prestigious awards such as the Latin Grammy and MTV Europe Awards, Mena has performed at iconic festivals like Coachella and Primavera Sound. Her fifth album, Nocturna (2022), received critical acclaim, and in 2023, she toured extensively across Latin America. With her distinctive sound and emotional depth, Javiera Mena continues to captivate audiences.
Laura Pérez (Colombia)
Laura Pérez, a 24-year-old singer-songwriter from Bogotá, has been captivating audiences across Latin America since her debut in 2020. With over 27 released songs, including hits like “Buenos Días,” she has solidified her place as a rising star in the Latin music scene. Her albums Retazos (2020), Canciones Chiquitas (2021), and Tristes, pero no tanto (2023) have all been well-received. Laura has also shared the stage with major acts such as El Kanka, Pimpinela, and Camilo. Last February, she released her album La Chinita, which dives deeper into her roots while exploring new sonic landscapes. With her unique sound and emotive lyrics, Laura Pérez is making waves in the Latin music world.
Six Sex (Argentina)
Six Sex is an emerging force in the Argentinian music scene, known for her raver and electronic influences. Starting in 2019 with her debut EP Fantasy, Six Sex quickly gained attention for her sensual style and playful humor, which became her signature. Her fourth EP, SATISFIRE, was hailed as one of the best albums of the year by media outlets like Remezcla and Indie Hoy, and she has been recognized by Rolling Stone and NME as one of the most promising artists for 2025. Six Sex is preparing for her most ambitious show to date in Buenos Aires and will also perform at the prestigious Sónar 2025 festival in Barcelona. Her fifth EP, X-sex, released in March, continues her innovative approach to music with singles like “U&ME” and “Performance Actitud (Pose)”.
Poetisas no Topo 4 (Brazil)
On the eve of International Women’s Day, Poetisas no Topo 4 released a groundbreaking track featuring some of the most powerful voices in Brazilian rap: Negra Li, Luedji Luna, Duquesa, Boombeat, Azzy, Cynthia Luz, and Clara Lima. This collaboration aims to break the traditional rap mold by incorporating a diverse range of female perspectives, including Luedji Luna’s soulful contributions and Boombeat’s unique perspective as a trans woman. The track also highlights Clara Lima, a lesbian and gender non-conforming artist. The song brings together generations of female rap talent, with Duquesa, Negra Li, and Azzy representing the 90s, 2010s, and 2020s rap scenes, respectively. This powerful cross-generational collaboration reflects the evolving nature of Brazilian rap and the strength of its female voices.
Emily Galaviz (Venezuela)
Emily Galaviz, a 17-year-old singer and songwriter from Venezuela, has already made a significant impact with her music and social media presence. Growing up surrounded by traditional Colombian-Venezuelan music, Emily began performing at the age of five and has since carved out her own space in the music industry. Her unique approach to singing llanera music—blending traditional rhythms with contemporary sounds—has resonated with listeners around the world. Emily’s ability to connect emotionally with her audience through her performances and lyrics makes her an exciting young talent.
Dayanara (Ecuador)
Dayanara, Ecuador’s most influential artist, has become a major figure in the Regional Popular genre in Latin America. Known for her powerful presence and musical collaborations with artists like Paola Jara, Arelys Henao, and Pipe Bueno, Dayanara has captured the attention of fans across the continent. In 2024, she entered the top five most-listened-to Ecuadorian artists on digital platforms, with over 9 million followers. After completing her “El Karma Tour,” Dayanara is gearing up for her “El Corta Venas Tour” in 2025, with performances planned in cities like New York, Miami, and Barcelona. Her rise in the Latin music scene continues to impress, as she solidifies her place as a key voice in the genre.
Bala (Mexico)
Bala, a rising star from Mexico, began her career as a YouTuber at the age of 11 and quickly gained recognition as a Nickelodeon ambassador for Latin America in 2019. Now, at 20 years old, Bala has transitioned into a successful singer-songwriter known for her authentic personality and musical talent. Her growing fanbase is drawn to her raw energy and relatable lyrics, as she continues to capture the hearts of millions. Bala’s passion for music and ability to connect with audiences on a personal level makes her one of Mexico’s most exciting young artists.
Eva Ruiz (Spain)
Eva Ruiz, a talented Spanish singer, songwriter, and actress, hails from Lanzarote in the Canary Islands. Known for her graceful yet powerful voice, she creates a unique fusion of pop and soul that transcends genres. Eva’s music blends emotive storytelling with a smooth, distinctive vocal style that captivates listeners. Her ability to paint vivid pictures with words, combined with her natural vocal ability, sets her apart in the Spanish music scene. As she continues to develop her artistry, Eva Ruiz has become known for her distinctive sound and presence, establishing herself as a rising star in Spanish and international music.
Patty Gurdy (Germany)
Patty Gurdy is a German singer-songwriter and hurdy-gurdist who has gained international recognition for her unique folk-pop sound. At 27, Patty has built a large following through her captivating performances on platforms like YouTube and other social media. Known for her ethereal voice and mastery of the hurdy-gurdy, she transcends cultural boundaries with her medieval-inspired music. Her versatility is showcased in collaborations with notable bands such as Alestorm and her contributions to the Amazon Prime series Carnival Row. Patty’s ability to seamlessly blend traditional and contemporary sounds has earned her a dedicated global fanbase, and she continues to push the boundaries of folk music in innovative ways.
Emma Nolde (Italy)
Emma Nolde, born in Tuscany in 2000, is an emerging Italian singer-songwriter whose debut album Toccaterra garnered widespread acclaim. It was a runner-up for the prestigious Targa Tenco Award for Best Debut Album. Following an extensive tour, Emma collaborated with Generic Animal in 2021 and Zen Circus in 2022. Her second album Dormi, released in 2022, was co-produced by Emma and Francesco Motta. In 2024, she signed with Carosello Records and released her highly anticipated third album NUOVOSPAZIOTEMPO, which was quickly praised as one of the best albums of 2024. The album explores societal themes such as hyper-productivity and the importance of relationships, with collaborations from artists like Niccolò Fabi, Nayt, and Mecna. Emma’s evocative lyrics and unique storytelling have established her as a powerful voice in contemporary Italian music.
Lyna Mahyem (France)
Lyna Mahyem is a French singer-songwriter known for her powerful voice and emotive lyrics. Emerging from the urban pop and R&B scene, she quickly gained recognition for her ability to blend modern melodies with raw, heartfelt storytelling. Lyna’s music resonates deeply with her audience, addressing themes such as love, resilience, and social issues. Her career has seen viral success and gold-certified records, cementing her place as a key figure in contemporary French music. Through her music, Lyna continues to break boundaries and empower listeners with her authenticity and emotional depth.
DOROFEEVA (Ukraine)
DOROFEEVA is the most-followed Ukrainian artist on social media, with 10 million followers and music heard in 180 countries. Her tracks ranked among the top 10 Ukrainian songs on Apple Music and Spotify in 2023-2024. In 2024, she became an ambassador for Spotify’s Equal project and released the first Ukrainian-language track, “Nitroglycerin,” which topped both global and local Equal charts, appearing in Times Square and on the “Best of EQUAL 2024” playlist alongside artists like Sabrina Carpenter and Celine Dion. DOROFEEVA is passionate about supporting young musicians, evident from her solo show at Ukraine’s largest venue, where she introduced emerging talent to a crowd of 10,000. Through her music and actions, she proves that Ukrainian music is modern, high-quality, and globally relevant, making a significant impact on the international music scene.
Delara (Norway)
Delara, an award-winning artist from Norway, made her debut in 2017 with the single “Paper Paper” and rose to prominence with the remix of Karpe’s “Gunerius,” now boasting over 17 million streams. Her EP Running Deep was nominated for the Spellemann Award for ‘Pop Album of the Year,’ and she won the GAFFA Award. In 2023, her cover of the Swedish song “Josefin” became a viral hit in Norway and Sweden, further solidifying her presence in Scandinavian music. Delara’s debut album Shahrazad, released last year, was praised for its diverse musical range and deep lyrics, earning her the Spellemann Award for Album of the Year. Internationally, her collaboration on “Checka” with Loredana topped the charts in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. Her song “Siste Dans” topped Norway’s Spotify charts last December, and is nominated for the 2025 Spellemann Award for ‘Song of the Year’. Delara completed a sold-out tour in Norway’s largest cities and has been a festival highlight throughout 2024.
Latanya Alberto (Netherlands)
Latanya Alberto, born in Amsterdam with roots from Suriname and Curaçao, is a talented singer and songwriter known for her poetic writing style. Starting as a teenager, she tackles topics such as social awareness, female empowerment, injustice, and romance. Her music combines captivating storytelling with visual art, creating a complete experience. In 2022, she released her EP Home, followed by the single “Landing Soft” in 2023, which garnered attention from artists like Robert Glasper and Masego. Latanya has performed at prestigious stages including Eurosonic, COLORS (twice), and with the Metropole Orchestra, while also headlining shows in Paradiso Amsterdam and London. She opened for John Legend at Ahoy Arena and headlined the North Sea Jazz Festival in 2023, where she was named ‘The talent to watch.’ Her live performances are a key part of her artistry, and she continues to gain recognition across Europe and beyond.
AVEC (Austria)
AVEC is an Austrian musician known for her honest, raw pop music. Her journey began in 2015 with her debut EP Heartbeats, which led to the release of her first album What If We Never Forget (2016). AVEC’s career took a turn in 2018 with the release of Heaven/Hell, a more pop-driven album created with producer Tommy McLaughlin in Ireland. The album’s success enabled her to transition from a passion project to a full-time career, prompting her to pause studies in molecular biosciences. Her third album, Homesick (2020), was inspired by her challenging experience in Berlin, and her 2023 EP I Feel Alone These Days explored deeper emotions. AVEC’s latest work, the self-titled AVEC (2025), released under her label JIM BOB RECORDS, continues her journey of creating deeply personal, honest music. Her authenticity and introspective songwriting have earned her a loyal fanbase across Europe and beyond.
Nilipek. (Turkey)
Nilipek., a prominent figure in Turkish alternative music, debuted in 2015 with her critically acclaimed album Sabah. Her distinct vocal style and unique arrangements have set her apart in the music scene. In 2017, her album Döngü marked a shift to a noisier, more experimental sound, and Mektuplar (2020) continued this transformation with bold new storytelling techniques. Nilipek. gained further attention with her radical covers of classic Turkish songs like “Gözleri Aşka Gülen” (2018) and the kitsch pop hit “Bir Gün Beni Arzularsan Gel” (2021). In 2022, she focused on collaborations, including “Castles” with French indie artist Oscar Anton and “Vazgeçtim” with Turkish producer Taner Yücel. Her latest album Uydurduğumuz Oyunlarla (2024) blends complex emotions with poetic lyrics, featuring minimalist arrangements and showcasing her signature soft voice. Nilipek.’s evolving sound continues to resonate with both Turkish and international audiences.
MFS (Japan)
MFS is a Tokyo-born rapper and a member of the Osaka-based hip-hop collective Tha Jointz. Her 2022 track, “BOW,” became a worldwide sensation after being featured in the popular game Overwatch 2. The song topped Spotify charts in over 45 countries, including the U.S., U.K., and Germany, making MFS the first Japanese artist to achieve such success. In 2023, MFS released the “BOW Remix,” featuring Baby Tate, and expanded her influence with collaborations in the fashion world, working with brands like AVIREX, Balenciaga, and Adidas. She was included in Spotify’s “RADAR: Early Noise 2024,” showcasing emerging artists poised for a breakthrough. Last April, MFS released her debut album COMBO, featuring collaborations with Japanese and international artists, marking the next phase of her exciting career.
Regina Song (Singapore)
Regina Song, a 21-year-old artist from Singapore, has quickly risen as one of the country’s top streamed talents on Spotify. Her 2024 single, “the cutest pair,” has amassed over 36 million streams since its release in June, securing a spot at the top of Spotify’s “Viral 50 – Global” playlist. With over 1.6 million monthly listeners, Regina was named Spotify’s 2024 RADAR artist, marking a major milestone in her career. Following her debut album fangirl, she went on a sold-out Southeast Asia tour, performing in major cities like Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Jakarta, and Manila. This year, she’s set to perform at regional festivals such as Wanderland in the Philippines and LaLaLa Fest in Indonesia, sharing the stage with global acts like Black Eyed Peas and Camila Cabello.
Yamy (China)
Yamy is a prominent rapper, dancer, and the former leader of the popular Chinese idol group Rocket Girls 101. With over 7 million followers on Weibo, Yamy has made a name for herself in China’s hip-hop scene through her bold lyrics and striking visual style. Known for her feminist message, she has become a cultural icon in Chinese hip-hop, using her platform to challenge traditional norms and empower women. Her music and persona continue to shape her legacy, as she is celebrated for both her artistic expression and her role in advocating for gender equality in the Chinese entertainment industry.
Raja Kumari (India)
Raja Kumari, an American-born artist of Indian descent, has blended Indian classical traditions with contemporary hip-hop and R&B, becoming a global icon in the process. A Grammy-nominated musician, Raja has collaborated with legends like A.R. Rahman, John Legend, and Sidhu Moosewala, using her music to celebrate empowerment and South Asian identity. A classically trained dancer in Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, and Odissi, she infuses these traditions into her music and performances, bridging the gap between ancient cultural practices and modern artistry. Raja Kumari is also deeply involved in philanthropy, working with UNICEF and other organizations focused on gender equality. Her album Kashi to Kailash reflects her spiritual connection to Hindu philosophy, especially her devotion to Lord Shiva, blending music, dance, and activism to create a unique artistic identity.
Anna Lunoe (Australia)
Anna Lunoe is an Australian DJ, producer, and vocalist who has significantly influenced electronic dance music. Initially known for her work as a host on FBi Radio, Anna made history as the first woman to mix for Ministry of Sound Australia. In 2012, she moved to Los Angeles and released Anna Lunoe & Friends, with the hit “Real Talk” topping Beatport’s Indie Dance Chart. Anna has performed at major festivals like Coachella and became the first solo female DJ to perform on EDC Las Vegas’ main stage. She also launched HYPERHOUSE on Apple Music’s Beats 1, where she championed up-and-coming dance music talent. Anna’s career continues to break barriers, establishing her as a leading force in the global electronic music scene.
BINI (Philippines)
BINI is a Filipino pop group composed of eight incredibly talented members: Aiah, Colet, Maloi, Gwen, Stacey, Mikha, Jhoanna, and Sheena. With their incredible vocal range, dance moves, and versatility, they’ve quickly become the biggest female artist group in the Philippines, holding the #1 and #2 spots on the top Filipino charts simultaneously with their hits “Salamin, Salamin” and “Pantropiko.” BINI’s music blends local influences with global pop sensations, and they’ve amassed a massive fanbase, with over 30 million streams. Their unprecedented success was highlighted by the rapid sell-out of their “BINIverse” tour, and they were recently named by Teen Vogue as one of the 2024 Girl Groups to watch, marking their rapid ascent in the music world.
Naykilla (Indonesia)
Naykilla, is an Indonesian singer, rapper, and songwriter who blends hip-hop and dangdut, creating a genre she calls “Hipdut.” Coming from a musical family, she is the younger sister of singer Sara Fajira. Naykilla began her career in 2019, gaining attention with her viral hit “Garam dan Madu,” released on December 20, 2024, featuring Tenxi and Jemsii. The track, a fusion of Indonesian, English, and Javanese lyrics, became a TikTok sensation, amassing 40 million streams in just one month. It topped Indonesian charts for weeks, further cementing Naykilla’s place as a rising star in the Indonesian music scene, known for her unique sound and storytelling.
VSTRA (Vietnam)
VSTRA is a singer/songwriter from Hà Nội, Việt Nam, known for her unique blend of R&B, pop, and hip-hop. Describing herself as an egoist with a lustful soul, VSTRA’s music fuses diverse elements, rejecting norms while honoring the essence of each genre. With her ambitious approach and transformative style, she’s quickly establishing herself as a standout figure in the music scene. Her distinct sound and unapologetic artistry make her one to watch in the Vietnamese and global music landscape.
MILLI (Thailand)
MILLI, born Danupha Khanatheerakul, is a Thai rapper known for her bold lyrics and dynamic presence. She first gained attention with her 2020 debut hit, “Phak Kon,” an anti-bullying anthem that garnered over 90 million views. In 2022, MILLI made history as the first Thai solo artist to perform at Coachella, a moment that became a global sensation when she famously ate mango sticky rice on stage. Known for blending Thai dialects with Japanese and English, MILLI uses her music to challenge beauty standards and raise awareness of social issues. With upcoming high-profile collaborations and a world tour on the horizon, she is redefining the Thai hip-hop scene and making a major cultural impact globally.
Demae (UK)
Demae, a multi-disciplinary artist from Harlesden, North-West London, draws inspiration from both her unique tastes and her father’s musical influence, particularly the golden age of hip-hop with legends like A Tribe Called Quest and Wu-Tang Clan. Though she studied fashion at university, Demae’s true passion always lay in music, which she explored creatively throughout her studies.Her sound blends soul, alternative hip-hop, and ambiance, crafting introspective and captivating tracks. Partnering with FAMM, she released an unofficial Madlib mixtape, Maelib, demonstrating her admiration for both hip-hop and Madlib’s iconic sound. The mixtape merges soul, disco, new-age R&B, jazz, and avant-garde hip-hop, earning praise from BBC 1Xtra and her peers. In 2024, Demae released the EP Deliver Me, featuring standout tracks like “Speechless” and “Go Ur Own Way,” showcasing her introspective storytelling and solidifying her place in British music. In January, she released her single “Ain’t Easy,” accompanied by a self-directed visualizer, which gained widespread radio play and press acclaim, setting the stage for a promising year ahead.
Ggoldie (South Africa)
Ggoldie, born Tshegofatso Mashabela, is a rising DJ in South Africa’s vibrant Amapiano scene. Since debuting in 2021, Ggoldie has become a dynamic force, mastering various sub-genres of Amapiano, from Sgija and Private Amapiano to Streetsounds. She draws inspiration from renowned DJs such as Dbn Gogo, DJ Spinal, and DJ Shimza, and her skill on the decks is matched by her deep connection to Amapiano’s evolving sound.
Her musical journey has taken her to prestigious stages like Cotton Fest, Porry Land, and Spotify Greasy Tunes, with international appearances extending her reach to Mozambique. Ggoldie’s debut single, “Asambe,” was a career milestone, surpassing 5 million streams and earning industry-wide recognition. She later collaborated with Nigerian artist Odumodublvck on a remix, uniting South and East African sounds. Her latest track, “Bopha,” continues to gain momentum, elevating her status in Amapiano. With her unique sound and international appeal, Ggoldie is not just a DJ but a cultural ambassador, pushing the genre to global prominence.
Winny (Nigeria)
Winny, born Winifred Ohili Adanu, is a rising Afro-reggae artist from Benue State, Nigeria. Raised in Jos, Winny blends reggae, R&B/Soul, and Afrobeat, crafting a sound that is both distinct and captivating. Influenced by artists like Chronixx, Wizkid, and Kranium, her music reflects themes of love, compassion, and self-awareness, shaped by her upbringing in a large family grounded in values of love, contentment, and faith.
Winny’s debut self-titled 7-track EP, released in April 2023, included the breakout single “Don’t Leave,” which charted in the Top 200 of the Apple Music R&B/Soul Chart across multiple African countries. The EP garnered recognition from major artists, including Omah Lay, and made waves in 19 countries, peaking at Number 1 in Nigeria. Winny’s success has been bolstered by coverage from platforms like COLORS, BBC Radio 1, and Apple Music 1, as well as features on prominent Spotify playlists. This year, Winny is set for even greater success, having recently released her second EP with collaborations from Thutmose and Projexx, further cementing her place in the Afrobeats scene.
Ilham (US)
Ilham, an emerging artist blending seductive R&B and dreamy visuals, draws from her Moroccan heritage and the legacy of R&B legends. Her unique sound offers a refreshing take on contemporary R&B, marked by sensuality and confidence. Her latest single, “Roster,” arrived after her runway debut at MEFeater Magazine’s Galentine’s New York Fashion Week show, marking a significant milestone in her career.
With over 33 million streams across platforms, Ilham’s music has garnered widespread attention from media outlets like The FADER, NYLON Manila, and Hypebeast Arabia. She has also received praise from prestigious publications such as NPR, Vogue Arabia, and Marie Claire. Her empowering releases and captivating visuals have cemented her as a rising star in the R&B scene, with her music continuously pushing the boundaries of the genre.
