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Who Is Rachel Makena?
Key Facts & Highlights

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Name: Rachel Makena​

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Location: Beverley, East Yorkshire

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Genres: Pop, country, acoustic

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Specialisms: Live acoustic sets, Taylor Swift Tribute Act

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Experience: 10+ years of live performance

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Education: BSc Cell Biology, MSc Molecular Medicine

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

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Email: contact@rachelmakenamusic.com 

 

Call : 44 7396 639644

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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.

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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.

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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.

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

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Musical style and influences

Rachel’s signature sound blends:

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  • Acoustic pop and country

  • Warm, expressive vocals

  • Story‑driven songwriting

  • Occasional electronic dance elements in her original music

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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.

 

 

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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.

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

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

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  • Flemingate

  • Beverley Fringe Festival

  • Service Station (Hull)

  • Trinity Food Market

  • Jaz Bar

  • Viking FM’s P&O mini‑cruise to Amsterdam

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During this time, she also completed an MSc in Molecular Medicine at Leeds University, balancing academic study with her growing performance career.

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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.

 

 

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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

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

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