Tamara Dey Announced as Lady of the House Godmother
For over two decades, Tamara Dey has ignited South Africa’s dance floors with her genre-defying sound and unforgettable stage presence. From chart-topping kwaito anthems to pioneering work in electronic music with Flash Republic, she’s consistently pushed boundaries, shattered stereotypes, and brought people together through rhythm. Now, the First Lady of Kwaito-House is stepping into a powerful new role: godmother for the Lady of the House (LOTH) South African demo contest.
As part of the international movement uplifting women and non-binary creatives in dance music, Tamara Dey joins a growing circle of influential South African godmothers – including Gigi Lamayne, Namakau Star, Shamiso, and Money Badoo – to select four emerging artists who will win life-changing opportunities through the contest.
Tamara Dey | SUPPLIED
“Reflecting on my journey, I’m reminded of the powerful women who welcomed and supported me when I entered this industry,” shares Tamara Dey. “In an era where South Africa continues to wrestle with questions of safety, equity and inclusion, I feel an even greater responsibility to uplift our voices – especially those of the women and LGBTQ+ community who have shaped dance music culture from the beginning”.
Her involvement speaks to the very heart of the campaign: shining a global light on South African creativity, history, and healing through music. “Our dance floors have always been spaces of resistance, unity, and joy,” Tamara reflects. “This competition is about preserving that spirit while helping the next wave tell their stories on their own terms.”
“I am honoured to join iconic South African artists and fellow ‘God Mothers’ Gigi Lamayne, Namakau, Shamiso, and Money Badoo in selecting the winners for the South African leg of the Lady of the House demo competition. I will be on the lookout for world-class production and songwriting that truly captures the heart and soul of South Africa’s story and culture through dance music,” expresses Tamara Dey.
Tamara Dey | SUPPLIED
“Tamara Dey represents everything Lady of the House stands for; legacy, innovation, and a deep commitment to uplifting others. Her impact on South Africa’s dance music culture is undeniable, and her presence as a godmother sends a clear message: this movement is for everyone, regardless of background. As we deepen our roots in South Africa, Tamara brings the heart, history, and future vision we need to guide this next chapter,” shares Laila McKenzie, Founder of Lady of the House.
Organised by Lady of the House and supported by Jägermeister’s SAVE THE NIGHT platform, the South African demo contest invites women and non-binary artists and producers to submit their unreleased tracks for a chance to receive:
- A full release on Lady of the House Records supported by a targeted promotional campaign
- DJ/production tools from Beatport and TribeXR
- Full scholarship to the Pete Tong DJ Academy, with the chance of an exclusive award.
- A professional photo shoot
- Expert mentorship from established music professionals who will guide the next wave of creators, providing career-shaping feedback and connecting them to key industry pathways.
- Access to Lady of the House’s vast global creative network, including tastemakers like Gray Area, dedicated to uniting the international house music community and spotlighting new talent, and Broadwick Live, the force behind iconic venues like Drumsheds and Printworks, known for world-class artist collaborations. These connections help unlock global opportunities and reflect the rising demand for fresh, diverse sounds from Africa and beyond.
Tanara Dey | SUPPLIED
Four winners will be selected for their originality, production skill and potential to shift the cultural landscape – not just musically, but socially.
Entries are open now via LabelRadar and close on 17 July 2025: Submit your demo here
In a territory like South Africa where systemic gender-based violence, inequality, and creative gatekeeping remain urgent issues, the Lady of the House demo contest is a step toward rewriting the future.
“Let’s continue to elevate and celebrate the voices that shape and grow our vibrant music landscape,” Tamara Dey affirms. “This is about legacy, and the next generation deserves to be heard.”