Johannesburg, Tuesday, 24 June 2025 – For over two decades, Tamara Dey has ignited South Africa’s dance floors with her genre-defying sound and unforgettable stage presence. From chart-topping kwaito anthems to pioneering work in electronic music with Flash Republic, she’s consistently pushed boundaries, shattered stereotypes, and brought people together through rhythm. Now, the First Lady of Kwaito-House is stepping into a powerful new role: godmother for the Lady of the House (LOTH) South African demo contest.
As part of the international movement uplifting women and non-binary creatives in dance music, Tamara Dey joins a growing circle of influential South African godmothers – including Gigi Lamayne,Namakau Star, Shamiso, and Money Badoo – to select four emerging artists who will win life-changing opportunities through the contest.
“Reflecting on my journey, I’m reminded of the powerful women who welcomed and supported me when I entered this industry,” shares Tamara Dey. “In an era where South Africa continues to wrestle with questions of safety, equity and inclusion, I feel an even greater responsibility to uplift our voices – especially those of the women and LGBTQ+ community who have shaped dance music culture from the beginning”.
Her involvement speaks to the very heart of the campaign: shining a global light on South African creativity, history, and healing through music. “Our dance floors have always been spaces of resistance, unity, and joy,” Tamara reflects. “This competition is about preserving that spirit while helping the next wave tell their stories on their own terms.”
“I am honoured to join iconic South African artists and fellow ‘God Mothers’ Gigi Lamayne, Namakau, Shamiso, and Money Badoo in selecting the winners for the South African leg of the Lady of the House demo competition. I will be on the lookout for world-class production and songwriting that truly captures the heart and soul of South Africa’s story and culture through dance music,” expresses Tamara Dey.
“Tamara Dey represents everything Lady of the House stands for; legacy, innovation, and a deep commitment to uplifting others. Her impact on South Africa’s dance music culture is undeniable, and her presence as a godmother sends a clear message: this movement is for everyone, regardless of background. As we deepen our roots in South Africa, Tamara brings the heart, history, and future vision we need to guide this next chapter,” shares Laila McKenzie, Founder of Lady of the House.
Organised by Lady of the House and supported by Jägermeister’s SAVE THE NIGHT platform, the South African demo contest invites women and non-binary artists and producers to submit their unreleased tracks for a chance to receive:
Full scholarship to the Pete Tong DJ Academy, with the chance of an exclusive award.
A professional photo shoot
Expert mentorship from established music professionals who will guide the next wave of creators, providing career-shaping feedback and connecting them to key industry pathways.
Access to Lady of the House’s vast global creative network, including tastemakers like Gray Area, dedicated to uniting the international house music community and spotlighting new talent, and Broadwick Live, the force behind iconic venues like Drumsheds and Printworks, known for world-class artist collaborations. These connections help unlock global opportunities and reflect the rising demand for fresh, diverse sounds from Africa and beyond.
Four winners will be selected for their originality, production skill and potential to shift the cultural landscape – not just musically, but socially.
Entries are open now via LabelRadar and close on 17 July 2025: Submit your demo here
In a territory like South Africa where systemic gender-based violence, inequality, and creative gatekeeping remain urgent issues, the Lady of the House demo contest is a step toward rewriting the future.
“Let’s continue to elevate and celebrate the voices that shape and grow our vibrant music landscape,” Tamara Dey affirms. “This is about legacy, and the next generation deserves to be heard.”
OPEN LETTER FROM TAMARA DEY
I am thrilled to announce my collaboration with Lady of the House, an inspiring global movement and record label dedicated to uplifting women and non-binary artists in the electronic dance music scene.
Reflecting on my journey in the South African dance music scene since the early 2000s, I am warmly reminded of the incredible women such as Brenda Fassie, Lebo Mathosa, Thembi Seete and Thandiswa Mazwai – who welcomed me with open arms, offering guidance and support without hesitation, as well as collaboration on some of my earlier tracks. Their immense talent, unapologetic presence, and courage in a predominantly male-dominated industry have been a constant source of inspiration, motivating me to pursue my dreams in music for over two decades. My goal has always been to not only advance my own career but also to uplift those around me, building community and enriching SA music culture whenever I can.
The rich and diverse history of South Africa’s dance music culture is an important story that deserves to be shared. In times of divide and great struggle, our music has united us, creating a sense of belonging on the dance floor for all. It continues to play a crucial role in the ongoing healing, forgiveness, and growth that our beautiful country is experiencing.
As a single mother to a wonderful little Tsonga/English South African girl, I feel an even greater responsibility to contribute to a world where talented African women and non-binary artists are adequately represented, nurtured, and supported on the global stage.
I also hold a deep affection for the LGBTQ community, grateful for their unwavering courage in advocating for authenticity and self-expression. Their spirit is the very essence from which dance music was born, and it is a beautiful gift they have shared with the world.
I am honoured to join iconic South African artists and fellow ‘God Mothers’ Gigi Lamayne, Namakau, Shamiso, and Money Badoo in selecting the winners for the South African leg of the Lady of the House demo competition. I will be on the lookout for world-class production and songwriting that truly captures the heart and soul of South Africa’s story and culture through dance music.
Together, let’s continue to elevate and celebrate and uplift the voices that shape and grow our vibrant music landscape.
ABOUT LADY OF THE HOUSE
Lady of the House is an international movement, platform, and community dedicated to celebrating and elevating women and non-binary people across the music industry. From grassroots activism to global collaborations, the organization champions diversity, equity, and creative freedom within electronic music and beyond.
TAMARA DEY
Tamara Dey is a pioneering South African DJ, singer, and songwriter whose boundary-pushing sound has shaped the country’s dance music landscape for over two decades. Dubbed the First Lady of Kwaito-House and celebrated for township pop classics like “Thathi ‘Mphahlayakho,” she rose to fame as a solo artist and co-founder of EDM group Flash Republic. Tamara has collaborated with icons including DJ Zinhle, DJ Maphorisa, and D’Banj, and in 2024 launched Ode An Basso, a tech house event series spotlighting emerging talent. With an expansive career spanning genres and generations, she continues to champion innovation, community, and inclusion in music.
