ZOLATEC – Steel Pan Soloist & Music Producer

Jan 9

Jan 9 ZOLATEC – Steel Pan Soloist & Music Producer

Born in Leicester, Ayeshah (ZOLATEC) is an experienced steel pan musician and upcoming music producer.

Ayeshah connected with the steelpan scene aged 6 at the African Caribbean Centre in Highfields. At aged 15, she joined Contrast Steel Band and went on to play at the London Notting Hill Carnival & National Panorama Competitions in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2019, & 2023) uniting with Real Steel and Metronomes Steel Orchestra.

After moving to Manchester in 2021 to pursue a career in merchandising, she realised her true calling was to be a professional creative. In 2023, busking allowed her the exposure to leave the commercial fashion industry and start a solo career. Ayeshah hopes to bring the steel pan to light as a cover act and session musician, showcasing the instrument’s bright and colourful resonance.

Ayeshah also taught herself music production during the pandemic, which helped solidify the switch to the music industry. Inspired by music ranging from Nu-Metal to DnB, she uses software to fuse these influences into dark & melodic compositions. With the use of midi controllers and live pan improvisation, the set is performed differently each time. In May 2023, she performed her first original set at SOUP, Manchester. In December 2023, she released a 6 track EP, available on all musical streaming platforms.

Ayeshah stated, “My music effectively addresses the shortfall of authentic steel pans in music. The Island instrument was only created in the 1930’s, so it’s relatively new and rare to some. Many producers choose to use a pitched up/down sample of the steelpan, creating an instant loss in the dynamics and beauty of the sound.”

Ayeshah delivers school workshops and her presentation includes the history of the steelpan as well as a short performance to Primary and Secondary Schools. All teaching experience can be found on www.zolatec.co.uk. DBS can be provided upon request.