Discovering Kaleena Zanders: The Rising Star of Dance/Electronic Music
Early Musical Journey
Kaleena Zanders, a dance/electronic artist whose skills have developed over time, started her musical journey in high school. Inspired by her passion for sound, she began by learning to play instruments like the piano, guitar, and drums. “I started with learning piano by ear, then guitar, then drums in trade school,” she reminisces. This eclectic foundation set the stage for her diverse musical expression.
From an early age, Zanders showcased a natural talent for singing, cultivated through years of musical theater and vocal training. Although she faced a turning point in her education and did not complete her college degree, Zanders utilized her time there to absorb vital songwriting techniques and production knowledge. This experience laid the groundwork for her eventual transformation into a multifaceted artist.
The Call of DJing
2020 marked a significant turning point in Zanders’ artistic path, as she discovered the art of DJing. “I got a controller, took lessons, and started falling in love with it,” she confides. The newfound skill of DJing presented her with a unique opportunity to exert greater control over her artistic vision. It became a powerful channel through which she could blend her vocal artistry with the pulsating beats of dance music.
“This journey of combining my voice with DJing at my shows has been amazing,” she adds, signifying her deep-rooted commitment to evolving as a performer.
Defining Her Sound
Zanders’ musical style is an intersection of various genres, heavily influenced by her past experiences. “My sound is centered around my voice and tells a soulful tale of hope and love,” she explains. She strikes a balance between futuristic electronic elements and her old-school vocal influences, often breaking the conventional rules of dance music. Her background in pop, R&B, and rock is palpable in her work, enriching her sound with layers of complexity and allure.
Recent Collaborations
In her most recent project, Zanders collaborated with Hayley May on the track “Who We Are,” a powerful anthem showcasing her vocal prowess and emotional depth. “Produced by my great friend Christofi, it’s such a beautiful deep song but still a banger haha,” she describes. This collaboration emphasizes her goal to embrace alliances with other vocalists in the dance music scene. Prior to this, she worked with Bipolar Sunshine to create another genre-crossing tune that elevated her distinct vibe even further.
Essential Gear
For her live performances and creative sessions, Zanders relies on a carefully curated set of gear. She prefers V-moda headphones while DJing and uses a Pioneer SDJ RX3 at home. Her go-to microphone is the Shure, which works in tandem with her Casio piano for songwriting and practice. This blend of technology and artistry is vital for her creative process, allowing her to keep her ideas fluid and fresh.
The Road Ahead for 2026
Exciting things are on the horizon for Zanders as she plans to release an album in 2026, complete with several singles that have her particularly thrilled. Her upcoming tour, aptly named “The Anything Goes Tour ’26,” will allow her to further connect with audiences and showcase her evolving artistry. Additionally, she speaks fondly of her collaboration with Griz, noting, “Touring with Griz has been such a beautiful experience. His team and community are the most welcoming bunch of folks.”
Kaleena Zanders is undeniably a name to watch in the dance/electronic music scene, with a distinctive sound infused with her powerful voice and an insatiable hunger for creativity. With each project, she continues to push boundaries and redefine what it means to be an artist in the modern music landscape.
