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Shambala 2025

Akabu Queens

AKABU are a trailblazing all-female reggae collective whose roots stretch back to 1981, when Diane White and sisters Shelomi and Paulette Coke formed a rhythm section that would grow into something historic. Originally performing as African Woman, they made waves as the first all-female band to play Reggae Sunsplash in Jamaica.

Renowned for their fierce musicianship and unapologetically feminine energy, AKABU evolved into a powerful force in reggae, working with producers like Adrian Sherwood and touring the globe alongside legends like Burning Spear and Gregory Isaacs.

Their work with SISTA Women in Reggae brought together women from the UK and Italy, uniting voices across borders in a celebration of sisterhood and sound. Whether on stage or in the studio, AKABU continue to uplift, inspire, and redefine reggae through a proudly female lens.

Expect heavy bass, conscious vibes, and a whole lot of fire.