KALEENA ZANDERS
TMN EXCLUSIVE!
The Rock Star of Dance Music the World Needs Right Now
There are artists who make music, and then there are artists who create moments. Kaleena Zanders is doing both: loudly, unapologetically, and with so much heart.
Whether you first heard her on her breakout single “V I B R A T I O N” or saw her name on a stacked festival lineup, you’ve probably already felt her energy. She’s a singer, DJ, producer, and full-on vibe curator, and her mission is clear: move bodies, move hearts, and open the door for more Black, queer artists to take up space in dance music.
Kaleena performed at the World Pride Music Festival, and it was impossible not to get pulled into her orbit. Her set was electric. Her voice was massive. And when we got the chance to interview her, she was one of the most genuine, joyful people we’ve ever met.
“Performing at World Pride is a complete honor,” she told us. “As a queer person myself, it means the world to have my own kind to sing to and dance with. It’s beautiful.”
Kaleena Zanders during the World Pride Music Festival. Photos by Marissa Carper.
Who She Is and Where She Came From
Kaleena Zanders grew up on soulful music and rock. You can still hear both in her voice, a wild mix of raw power, control, and straight-up feeling. She brings that same rock-band energy to the DJ booth. One second, she’s belting over a dance beat. The next, she’s jumping around the stage in full rock star mode.
“Early on, I listened to a lot of soulful music and rock. That really shaped the core of who I am. I was in a rock band... so at my core, I’m always ready to express insane, electrifying energy.”
And even though she’s killing it in the dance scene now, she still carries that bold, “just go for it” spirit from her rock roots.
Her Career Is Already Stacked
Kaleena isn’t new to this. She’s just finally getting the spotlight she deserves.
“V I B R A T I O N” hit No. 1 on the radio
Her song “Stronger Than I’ve Ever Been” premiered during the actual Super Bowl
“Carry Us”, her collab with LP Giobbi, was named one of the best songs of 2021 by Billboard and Forbes
She’s worked with dance legends like Tchami, AC Slater, Matroda, and Solardo
Her music gets regular play on BBC Radio 1, KISS FM UK, SiriusXM Electro, and Triple J
In every project, her voice cuts through. It’s not just powerful. It’s alive. And it makes people feel something.
Kaleena Zanders during the World Pride Music Festival. Photos by Marissa Carper.
Her Message for LGBTQ+ Teens
Kaleena isn’t just here to perform. She’s here to represent. She’s here to remind you that your identity is a superpower. That your art matters. That your truth belongs on the biggest stage possible.
When we asked what she’d say to a young LGBTQ+ person trying to break into music or art, this is what she told us:
“Be unapologetic in your art. Be humble and kind. Really put forth the truth and honesty of what you’re doing.”
“Let it go. Let the music and the message come out of you fully. Be proud of it. Be proud of you.”
Why Kaleena Zanders Matters
In a world where dance music still doesn’t always reflect the people who helped build it, Kaleena Zanders is doing more than just showing up; she’s kicking the door wide open. Her performances are celebrations. Her lyrics come from truth. Her sound is freedom on a beat.
You just have to be real. And loud. And you.
Where to Listen
Check out Kaleena’s latest music wherever you stream. Start with “V I B R A T I O N,” “Stronger Than I’ve Ever Been,” and “Carry Us.” And keep your eyes on her socials, her next set might be one of the best live shows you've ever seen.
“Kaleena is building space for more Black and queer artists to thrive. And she’s showing young people everywhere that you don’t have to shrink yourself to fit in. You don’t have to tone it down. You don’t have to play it safe.”
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