Rachel Makena Music
Singer, Songwriter and Taylor Swift Tribute Act
About Rachel Makena
Rachel Makena is an East Yorkshire–based singer‑songwriter and acoustic guitarist with more than a decade of live performance experience.
Known for her heartfelt vocals, warm stage presence and a touch of sparkle in every show, she brings unforgettable energy to weddings, parties, festivals and corporate events across the region.
Her versatile sets — from acoustic pop/country favourites to high‑energy Taylor Swift tributes complete with dancing and costume changes — make her a standout choice for any celebration.
The name Makena itself reflects her artistic spirit.
Inspired by Makena Beach in Maui, Hawaii — a place celebrated for its beauty, creativity and sense of freedom — it’s a fitting match for Rachel’s expressive, uplifting style.
A musical journey rooted in Yorkshire
Rachel’s love of performing began early. While studying at Beverley High School, she auditioned for a solo at the school’s Christmas carol concert. Singing in front of a packed Beverley Minster, with an audience of 1,000, at just 12 years old sparked a belief that she could one day perform professionally.That moment set her on a path that would see her play at venues, festivals and events across East Yorkshire and beyond.
Influences, style and what inspires her
Rachel’s favourite genre to perform live is pop/country, blending acoustic guitar with warm, expressive vocals. She also enjoys experimenting with electronic dance elements when creating original music.
Taylor Swift has been a major influence — not just musically, but in the way she crafts stories through her songs. That inspiration, combined with Rachel’s natural stage presence, led her to develop her popular Taylor Swift Tribute Act, a fun, high‑energy performance that audiences adore.
From university to professional stages
Rachel began taking music seriously as a career during her final year at university in Scotland, where she completed a BSc in Cell Biology. While auditioning for The Voice at a pub in Stirling, the venue’s music organiser heard her sing and immediately offered her a weekly paid slot.
The timing was bittersweet — she was due to return home to East Yorkshire after her exams — but the offer gave her the confidence to pursue performing professionally.
Back in Beverley, she threw herself into the local music scene. Early gigs included Flemingate, Beverley Fringe Festival, Service Station in Hull, Trinity Food Market, Jaz Bar and Viking FM’s P&O mini‑cruise to Amsterdam. During this time, she also completed an MSc in Molecular Medicine at Leeds University, balancing academic study with her growing performance career.
A performer loved across Yorkshire
Today, Rachel is a regular face at events across Yorkshire’s towns, villages and
festivals. Her mix of professionalism, warmth and musical versatility has made her a trusted favourite for venues, event organisers and private clients alike.
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Whether she’s creating a relaxed acoustic atmosphere or getting the dance floor
moving, Rachel’s passion for music shines through — and her audiences feel it.
