top of page
Tropical Sunset Beach
Taylor Swift tribute by Rachel Makena our song 1 square.JPG

Who Is Rachel Makena?
Key Facts & Highlights

Name: Rachel Makena​

Location: Beverley, East Yorkshire

Genres: Pop, country, acoustic

Specialisms: Live acoustic sets, Taylor Swift Tribute Act

Experience: 10+ years of live performance

Education: BSc Cell Biology, MSc Molecular Medicine

Events: Weddings, parties, festivals, corporate events and more ...

Email: contact@rachelmakenamusic.com 

 

Call : 44 7396 639644

.

About Rachel Makena

Rachel Makena is a singer‑songwriter and acoustic guitarist based in East Yorkshire, known for her heartfelt vocals, warm stage presence and uplifting pop/country sound. 

 

With more than a decade of live performance experience, she brings a unique blend of professionalism, sparkle and emotional connection to every show.

Rachel performs at weddings, parties, festivals and corporate events across Yorkshire, offering everything from relaxed acoustic sets to high‑energy Taylor Swift tribute performances complete with dancing and costume changes.

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
stack lincoln.jpg
beverley minster.jpg

A Musical Journey Rooted in Yorkshire

Rachel’s passion for performing began when she was just 12.

 

After auditioning for a solo at Beverley High School’s Christmas carol concert, she found herself standing in front of a packed Beverley Minster — 1,000 people watching as she sang.

 

It was the moment she realised performing wasn’t just something she enjoyed; it was something she wanted to do professionally.

That spark has grown into a journey that now takes her to venues, festivals and events across East Yorkshire and beyond.

taylor swift 1st album cover.jpg

Musical style and influences

Rachel’s signature sound blends:

  • Acoustic pop and country

  • Warm, expressive vocals

  • Story‑driven songwriting

  • Occasional electronic dance elements in her original music

 

A major influence throughout her career has been Taylor Swift — not only musically, but in the way she crafts stories and connects with audiences. This inspiration led Rachel to develop her popular Taylor Swift Tribute Act, a fun, energetic show that has become a favourite at events across the region.

 

 

From university to professional stages

Rachel began pursuing music seriously 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.

Although she was due to return home to East Yorkshire after her exams, the offer gave her the confidence to pursue performing professionally.

Back in Beverley, she immersed herself in the local music scene. Early gigs included:

  • Flemingate

  • Beverley Fringe Festival

  • Service Station (Hull)

  • Trinity Food Market

  • Jaz Bar

  • 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.

Graduation.JPG
Makena-Beach-Park-1130x752.jpg

The Meaning Behind the Name “Makena”

 

Rachel’s stage name is inspired by Makena Beach in Maui, Hawaii — a place known for its beauty, creativity and sense of freedom.

 

It reflects the spirit she brings to her performances: expressive, uplifting and full of heart.

 

 

 

 

A performer loved across Yorkshire

Today, Rachel is a familiar face at events throughout Yorkshire’s towns, villages and festivals. Her mix of warmth, versatility and professionalism has made her a trusted favourite for:

 

  • Wedding ceremonies and receptions

  • Private parties

  • Corporate events

  • Festivals and community celebrations

  • Themed tribute nights

Whether she’s creating a relaxed acoustic atmosphere or filling the dance floor, Rachel’s passion for music shines through — and audiences feel it.

white rose - Rachel Makena from East Yorkshire
bottom of page