Emma Shaka

In rock n’ roll, women usually fall into two categories. You have the ‘whoa is me, my heart is broken’ type and you have the ‘you broke my heart, now I’m going to kick your ass’ type. Following in the proud traditions of femrockers like Pat Benatar and Alanis Morissette, Emma Shaka is definitely one of the latter ones. On her new album Who I Am, she’s backed by an equally capable band and sings with a passion missing from many of her contemporaries. Songs in this collection tackle subjects near and dear to the hearts of women without giving into the emotional bondage that comes often comes with them.
Who I Am, a radio-friendly Pink-esque ballad is a gorgeous example of how Shaka can pour her heart out without leaving it on the ground to be stomped on. She proves here that a ballad doesn’t have to expose one’s vulnerability. Instead, she laments the fact her lover doesn’t really know her or anything about her. Many women listening will easily sympathize with this, making this song one of the breakout tracks on the album.
Other tracks range from hard rocking to dark and moody, all displaying the powerful vocal prowess of this singer from a French Territory called Reunion Island. The lead off single, Can You Hear Me, throws down the gauntlet in the indie-music scene and, indeed, the entire recording industry itself. She demands to be heard above the din of every studio manufactured artist and band competing for attention.
Like Alanis Morissette’s You Oughta Know almost two decades ago, the track Sex Away could become an anthem for young women fed up with men who treat them like shit then dump them. Blatantly risque, Shaka kicks a man to the curb for cheating on her. But the attitude given is pure girl-power. Is isn’t that he cheated. No, he cheated on the best thing he’ll ever have. The lyrics may be raw, but there is a positive message here for every high school girl being dumped on by a guy not worthy of her.
Choosing to avoid labels for her music, many different styles are evident here. Case in point: Echos of folk, country and, finally, Janis Joplin can be all be heard in Let Me Try. For a taste of true bruising alt-rock, check out the track Coming Up.
It’s rare to find an album where every song sounds fresh. There’s no filler in this ten song collection, just a proud singer showing off her chops and songwriting capabilities So impressive is this effort, we might one day see Emma Shaka standing atop a heap of helium-voiced American Idol wannabes like an Amazon in battle exclaiming “Can You Hear Me!?”
And the answer will be a resounding YES.
- Scandalous Woman (March 2013)

In rock n’ roll, women usually fall into two categories. You have the ‘whoa is me, my heart is broken’ type and you have the ‘you broke my heart, now I’m going to kick your ass’ type. Following in the proud traditions of femrockers like Pat Benatar and Alanis Morissette, Emma Shaka is definitely one of the latter ones. On her new album Who I Am, she’s backed by an equally capable band and sings with a passion missing from many of her contemporaries. Songs in this collection tackle subjects near and dear to the hearts of women without giving into the emotional bondage that comes often comes with them.
Who I Am, a radio-friendly Pink-esque ballad is a gorgeous example of how Shaka can pour her heart out without leaving it on the ground to be stomped on. She proves here that a ballad doesn’t have to expose one’s vulnerability. Instead, she laments the fact her lover doesn’t really know her or anything about her. Many women listening will easily sympathize with this, making this song one of the breakout tracks on the album.
Other tracks range from hard rocking to dark and moody, all displaying the powerful vocal prowess of this singer from a French Territory called Reunion Island. The lead off single, Can You Hear Me, throws down the gauntlet in the indie-music scene and, indeed, the entire recording industry itself. She demands to be heard above the din of every studio manufactured artist and band competing for attention.
Like Alanis Morissette’s You Oughta Know almost two decades ago, the track Sex Away could become an anthem for young women fed up with men who treat them like shit then dump them. Blatantly risque, Shaka kicks a man to the curb for cheating on her. But the attitude given is pure girl-power. Is isn’t that he cheated. No, he cheated on the best thing he’ll ever have. The lyrics may be raw, but there is a positive message here for every high school girl being dumped on by a guy not worthy of her.
Choosing to avoid labels for her music, many different styles are evident here. Case in point: Echos of folk, country and, finally, Janis Joplin can be all be heard in Let Me Try. For a taste of true bruising alt-rock, check out the track Coming Up.
It’s rare to find an album where every song sounds fresh. There’s no filler in this ten song collection, just a proud singer showing off her chops and songwriting capabilities So impressive is this effort, we might one day see Emma Shaka standing atop a heap of helium-voiced American Idol wannabes like an Amazon in battle exclaiming “Can You Hear Me!?”
And the answer will be a resounding YES.
- Scandalous Woman (March 2013)

Emma Shaka makin’ me shake-a da fist… I hate it when they do this to me… ask me to review some record and tell me it’s “pop” or what-not and then it’s hard-rock and all dark and weird, and then it turns into some kind of off the wall jazzy guitar thing with these twisted deep lyrics and some crazy effects dude takes a beautiful acoustic guitar and bends it all around for a second till it’s this soul-backed-southern-pop-country thang that turns out to lead right into some really good straight up modern rock and after I went and read the lyrics and judged the book by it’s cover all ready to hate on something for a minute I come out going “wow, this kicks Ass!”
Wow, try to read that in one breath…
No seriously, though. I did read some of the lyrics before listening, which is always a mistake. They are a bit dark and weird, but the awesome music Emma has written to accompany them makes them work, and work well.
Emma Shaka goes from hard edged and hurt to deep and personal and everything between on “Who I Am,” and displays total mastery of the vocal instrument while she does it. She should be able to after studying and practicing to the point that she’s a recognized vocal coach. Which in itself is a long story that involves world travel, a large number of band and professional music experiences and a life that has completely compelled her to release this debut record. Total independence is what she claims, doing the writing, and directing of music, to hiring the musicians and all the right teams to make it happen – and when what happens is a top notch record that deserves serious play – that’s impressive!
I don’t think I’ve heard anything like Emma Shaka since Alanna Miles. She’s like a cross between Wendy-O and Pat Benatar with this modern edge and that adds the perfect touch to her totally rockin’ band. She and the band aren’t the only ones that rock.
I gotta give a whole pile of cred to Shaka (who also produced this one) the production team and engineers worked some cool studio magic on it. To be honest, it sounds like they actually used some real tape! If they faked it – wow, nuts good job, y’all!
So there you have it rock and roll fans, once again, the old crumudgeon has been sucker punched right in the face with a record that kicks ass from one end to the other! Hats off!
- Middle Tennessee (March 2013)

Emma Shaka makin’ me shake-a da fist… I hate it when they do this to me… ask me to review some record and tell me it’s “pop” or what-not and then it’s hard-rock and all dark and weird, and then it turns into some kind of off the wall jazzy guitar thing with these twisted deep lyrics and some crazy effects dude takes a beautiful acoustic guitar and bends it all around for a second till it’s this soul-backed-southern-pop-country thang that turns out to lead right into some really good straight up modern rock and after I went and read the lyrics and judged the book by it’s cover all ready to hate on something for a minute I come out going “wow, this kicks Ass!”
Wow, try to read that in one breath…
No seriously, though. I did read some of the lyrics before listening, which is always a mistake. They are a bit dark and weird, but the awesome music Emma has written to accompany them makes them work, and work well.
Emma Shaka goes from hard edged and hurt to deep and personal and everything between on “Who I Am,” and displays total mastery of the vocal instrument while she does it. She should be able to after studying and practicing to the point that she’s a recognized vocal coach. Which in itself is a long story that involves world travel, a large number of band and professional music experiences and a life that has completely compelled her to release this debut record. Total independence is what she claims, doing the writing, and directing of music, to hiring the musicians and all the right teams to make it happen – and when what happens is a top notch record that deserves serious play – that’s impressive!
I don’t think I’ve heard anything like Emma Shaka since Alanna Miles. She’s like a cross between Wendy-O and Pat Benatar with this modern edge and that adds the perfect touch to her totally rockin’ band. She and the band aren’t the only ones that rock.
I gotta give a whole pile of cred to Shaka (who also produced this one) the production team and engineers worked some cool studio magic on it. To be honest, it sounds like they actually used some real tape! If they faked it – wow, nuts good job, y’all!
So there you have it rock and roll fans, once again, the old crumudgeon has been sucker punched right in the face with a record that kicks ass from one end to the other! Hats off!
- Middle Tennessee (March 2013)

Emma Shaka Now on Aural6.Com Radio
The moment I heard Emma Shaka, on her Facebook Fan Page, I knew I needed to contact her! Emma is from Reunion Island, France, and is a talented composer with an outstanding voice and style.
Can You Hear Me has a pop-rock sound with a little bit of everything. Stunning vocal arrangement, a soft side, great chorus and a rockin’ guitar.
Emma has been Involved in many musical projects in Europe and in China where she performed at some of the best musical venues. She released her first awaited album, Who I Am, in March 2012. Emma produced the release and keeps tight control over her career. She does it all from mixing and mastering her songs and manages the recording sessions. The album is a mix of rock-ish groove, pop and a more softer side. The vocals, needless to say, are magnificent. There is something for everyone on Who I Am.
Welcome to The Aural6.Com family, Emma!
- Aural6 Radio (February 2012)

Emma Shaka Now on Aural6.Com Radio
The moment I heard Emma Shaka, on her Facebook Fan Page, I knew I needed to contact her! Emma is from Reunion Island, France, and is a talented composer with an outstanding voice and style.
Can You Hear Me has a pop-rock sound with a little bit of everything. Stunning vocal arrangement, a soft side, great chorus and a rockin’ guitar.
Emma has been Involved in many musical projects in Europe and in China where she performed at some of the best musical venues. She released her first awaited album, Who I Am, in March 2012. Emma produced the release and keeps tight control over her career. She does it all from mixing and mastering her songs and manages the recording sessions. The album is a mix of rock-ish groove, pop and a more softer side. The vocals, needless to say, are magnificent. There is something for everyone on Who I Am.
Welcome to The Aural6.Com family, Emma!
- Aural6 Radio (February 2012)

Emma Shaka has been featured on the printed edition of “Music Week“ in June 2012.
She also had her song “Can You Hear Me“ featured on a CD attached to the journal.

Music Week's website has seen a major refit in July-August. Right now previous release of “Music Week Presents“ are not available anymore on there website.

The review from music week is however available on the "photos" field of Emma Shaka's profile.

"Music Week has been at the forefront of the music business for over 50 years.
It remains a respected voice and valued source of news, data, analysis and opinion throughout the industry. "

- Intent Media / Music Week (June 2012)

Emma Shaka has been featured on the printed edition of “Music Week“ in June 2012.
She also had her song “Can You Hear Me“ featured on a CD attached to the journal.

Music Week's website has seen a major refit in July-August. Right now previous release of “Music Week Presents“ are not available anymore on there website.

The review from music week is however available on the "photos" field of Emma Shaka's profile.

"Music Week has been at the forefront of the music business for over 50 years.
It remains a respected voice and valued source of news, data, analysis and opinion throughout the industry. "

- Intent Media / Music Week (June 2012)

Hopefully everyone who reads our site knows that making it in the music industry is far from easy. There is an amount of determination and drive needed in this business that dwarfs the efforts of people in the corporate world. It takes a certain kind of individual to go this route, especially on their own. We have found a truly driven woman when we met Emma Shaka.

Hailing from a French territory called Reunion Island, that I never heard of, she is on a quest to make herself well known in the rest of the world. After doing a little research I discovered that Reunion Island is a rocky little island off the coast of East Africa that is home to one of the most active volcanoes in the world. This is a fitting home base for Emma Shaka as she is ready to erupt upon the world. (I know, I know – horrible pun). She sees her musical talent as a gift that must be shared with everyone and is so determined to do so that is inspiring to others. She has ventured to countries such as Norway, France, and China to expose her indie style of energetic edgy rock mixed with melodic pop music.
The first step to stardom has recently happened with the release of Emma Shaka’s debut album Who I Am. The album is divided into two distinct parts. The first half is defined by more rock elements, whereas the other half is defined by pop music, successfully creating a refreshing album that resonates with both pop and rock music listeners. The opening track ‘Can You Hear Me’ attacks the listener right away with the undeniable energy of Emma’s voice over a basic rock groove. The focus is on the vocal performance here and it leaves the listener winded after the first listen. There is also a great guitar solo by James Le Joliff here that reminds you that this is a throwback to the rock music of yesteryear. Another track full of energy is ‘Sex Away’. Here we hear powerful and singable choruses that fans are sure to scream out in a live setting. The vocals brought a reminder of Joan Jett power to my ears. As the album progresses through tracks like ‘Let Me Try’ and ‘What About Me’, Emma Shaka shows off her softer side with mellower songcraft meant to touch the heartstrings of the listener. There is something for everything here and a great start to the career of a woman determined ‘to make it.’
Go enter Emma Shaka’s world at:
http://emma-shaka.com/
For a live look watch the video for ‘All Those Cries Around’ below:
http://goo.gl/NYOrh
- Indie Band Guru (January 2013)

Hopefully everyone who reads our site knows that making it in the music industry is far from easy. There is an amount of determination and drive needed in this business that dwarfs the efforts of people in the corporate world. It takes a certain kind of individual to go this route, especially on their own. We have found a truly driven woman when we met Emma Shaka.

Hailing from a French territory called Reunion Island, that I never heard of, she is on a quest to make herself well known in the rest of the world. After doing a little research I discovered that Reunion Island is a rocky little island off the coast of East Africa that is home to one of the most active volcanoes in the world. This is a fitting home base for Emma Shaka as she is ready to erupt upon the world. (I know, I know – horrible pun). She sees her musical talent as a gift that must be shared with everyone and is so determined to do so that is inspiring to others. She has ventured to countries such as Norway, France, and China to expose her indie style of energetic edgy rock mixed with melodic pop music.
The first step to stardom has recently happened with the release of Emma Shaka’s debut album Who I Am. The album is divided into two distinct parts. The first half is defined by more rock elements, whereas the other half is defined by pop music, successfully creating a refreshing album that resonates with both pop and rock music listeners. The opening track ‘Can You Hear Me’ attacks the listener right away with the undeniable energy of Emma’s voice over a basic rock groove. The focus is on the vocal performance here and it leaves the listener winded after the first listen. There is also a great guitar solo by James Le Joliff here that reminds you that this is a throwback to the rock music of yesteryear. Another track full of energy is ‘Sex Away’. Here we hear powerful and singable choruses that fans are sure to scream out in a live setting. The vocals brought a reminder of Joan Jett power to my ears. As the album progresses through tracks like ‘Let Me Try’ and ‘What About Me’, Emma Shaka shows off her softer side with mellower songcraft meant to touch the heartstrings of the listener. There is something for everything here and a great start to the career of a woman determined ‘to make it.’
Go enter Emma Shaka’s world at:
http://emma-shaka.com/
For a live look watch the video for ‘All Those Cries Around’ below:
http://goo.gl/NYOrh
- Indie Band Guru (January 2013)

Emma Shaka is a singer, songwriter and performer based in France. Emma produces her Pop-Rock sound, with the help of David.H. Ortola (bass), Vincent Perotti (percussion) and James Le Joliff (guitar). She released her debut album, “Who I Am,” in 2012, and has ventured throughout Norway, France and China, fueling her psyche and vehement drive to succeed in the music industry. A totally independent artist, as far as the creative processes are concerned, Shaka manages all aspects of her project single-handedly, while guitarist James Le Joliff carefully attends to all technical issues.
An unfortunate axiom in music history is that rock music has been and perhaps always will be a male-dominated scene, but that’s not to say there haven’t been any notable females in the history of rock music, but few of them were ever fully embraced. Those who made an impact and a definite difference include (in no particular order); Janis Joplin, PJ Harvey, Patti Smith, The Wilson sisters, Chrissie Hind, Pat Benatar, Joan Jett, Suzi Quattro, Stevie Nicks, Tori Amos, Alanis Morrisette and there’s still a list of others to mention. Then of course, there is Emma Shaka. She is only her debut album, but what already makes her remarkable, is that she manages to run the gamut of emotions through the course of only ten songs, on “Who I Am.”
Shaka’s vocals are delivered with brazen conviction and her novel approach to songwriting will astound many people upon first impression. Her emphasis on honesty over all else will help break down more barriers for women in rock music, providing a voice to a demographic that is too often ignored. Each of the songs are fresh, raw, and catchy, and the lyrics are honest, empathetic and straight down the line. Just listen to “Sex Away” for a taste of how direct she can be!
“Who I Am,” is a complete rock package: in lyrical depth, creative melodies, and music that will draw in fans from all genres. Shaka shines in her thoughtful, more mellow moments such as the title track “Who Am I,” which is about self-discovery, “Let Me Try,” and the closest thing to a bittersweet love song, “What About Me.” She also radiates on the other end of the spectrum on more energetic, wisdom enriched and sometimes even angry tracks like “Can You Hear Me”, “Coming Up”, “I Hate This”, “Scared Of You” and “Checking You Were Gone”.
This album is not girl power, it’s woman power. The mixes on the album, balance emotive melodies and lyrics with raspy or smooth backing tones and strong rhythms, while the textures float easily from soft acoustic to heavily-clipped, over-driven guitars. Shaka rants with a venomous tongue over ravaging rock n’ roll energy, chants with refreshing sarcasm, and grieves piercingly to the heart.
Throughout all of the tracks, her vocals and lyrics are center stage. It’s always great to hear a work that represents both passion and professionalism, and in the indie music world, having both of these qualities, is like having a full-house in a game of Poker!
If you’ve got one hand in your pocket, it should be getting out the money to buy this album. It’s worth every penny!
- Jamsphere (February 2013)

Emma Shaka is a singer, songwriter and performer based in France. Emma produces her Pop-Rock sound, with the help of David.H. Ortola (bass), Vincent Perotti (percussion) and James Le Joliff (guitar). She released her debut album, “Who I Am,” in 2012, and has ventured throughout Norway, France and China, fueling her psyche and vehement drive to succeed in the music industry. A totally independent artist, as far as the creative processes are concerned, Shaka manages all aspects of her project single-handedly, while guitarist James Le Joliff carefully attends to all technical issues.
An unfortunate axiom in music history is that rock music has been and perhaps always will be a male-dominated scene, but that’s not to say there haven’t been any notable females in the history of rock music, but few of them were ever fully embraced. Those who made an impact and a definite difference include (in no particular order); Janis Joplin, PJ Harvey, Patti Smith, The Wilson sisters, Chrissie Hind, Pat Benatar, Joan Jett, Suzi Quattro, Stevie Nicks, Tori Amos, Alanis Morrisette and there’s still a list of others to mention. Then of course, there is Emma Shaka. She is only her debut album, but what already makes her remarkable, is that she manages to run the gamut of emotions through the course of only ten songs, on “Who I Am.”
Shaka’s vocals are delivered with brazen conviction and her novel approach to songwriting will astound many people upon first impression. Her emphasis on honesty over all else will help break down more barriers for women in rock music, providing a voice to a demographic that is too often ignored. Each of the songs are fresh, raw, and catchy, and the lyrics are honest, empathetic and straight down the line. Just listen to “Sex Away” for a taste of how direct she can be!
“Who I Am,” is a complete rock package: in lyrical depth, creative melodies, and music that will draw in fans from all genres. Shaka shines in her thoughtful, more mellow moments such as the title track “Who Am I,” which is about self-discovery, “Let Me Try,” and the closest thing to a bittersweet love song, “What About Me.” She also radiates on the other end of the spectrum on more energetic, wisdom enriched and sometimes even angry tracks like “Can You Hear Me”, “Coming Up”, “I Hate This”, “Scared Of You” and “Checking You Were Gone”.
This album is not girl power, it’s woman power. The mixes on the album, balance emotive melodies and lyrics with raspy or smooth backing tones and strong rhythms, while the textures float easily from soft acoustic to heavily-clipped, over-driven guitars. Shaka rants with a venomous tongue over ravaging rock n’ roll energy, chants with refreshing sarcasm, and grieves piercingly to the heart.
Throughout all of the tracks, her vocals and lyrics are center stage. It’s always great to hear a work that represents both passion and professionalism, and in the indie music world, having both of these qualities, is like having a full-house in a game of Poker!
If you’ve got one hand in your pocket, it should be getting out the money to buy this album. It’s worth every penny!
- Jamsphere (February 2013)

A rarity in the music industry, Emma Shaka is an artist who clings to rawness and passion. Though previously involved in other musical projects, she now focuses on her solo project, a journey she has embarked on from Reunion Island. Emma Shaka is rare because of her passion found within her music, she demonstrates her rareness through her control over her career. One who prides herself on independence and decision-making over her career; Emma Shaka produced her album Who I Am, but also helped select her album artwork, mixed and mastered the songs, and manages the recording sessions. This blend of clear talent and passion combined with a straightforward rock ensures success on her album, Who I Am.

Who I Am begins with the track “Can You Hear Me.” Proving that she is no cookie-cutter replica, Emma displays her vocal ability, unparalleled by any other vocalist in the industry now. Over a fast-paced guitar groove and equally driving drumming, Emma’s vocals begin that relatively overpower the instrumentation. The vocalizations are absolutely raw, demonstrating Emma Shaka’s wide range and inner rocker. The inner rocker isn’t something she disguises throughout Who I Am’s duration. In any case, “Can You Hear Me” is the perfect song that sets the tone for the punchy rock, aurally enjoyable album.

Showcasing her risqué persona and evident rocker vibrations, Emma boldly and assertively makes herself heard on “Sex Away.” The lyricism however is nothing of innocence, as the title already foreshadows. “She used to be in this city, a one night stand, for any kind of men.” Describing the tale where the narrator’s partner has a relationship with a prostitute, the progressive rock instrumentation helps the reader jam out, while intently listening to the interesting narrative. The drums are absolutely thrilling; impeccably placing powerful fills while the guitarist helps build up the song’s intensity. The result is a well-crafted delivery, shaped by expertly gnarled guitars, strong drumming and once again, the raw vocals Emma possesses. She epitomizes what it means to be a true rock star, glimpses of Joan Jett conveyed through her strong vocals and rawness.

However, other songs help showcase different sides of Emma Shaka, proving that she is not only a classified rocker, but possesses remarkable talent in other genres. “Let Me Try” and “Who I Am” are exemplary tracks that illustrate Emma’s diversity; both tracks where she slows down musically and allow her voice to shine. “Let Me Try” begins with a softening guitar rift, one with an unusual, for the album, bluesy feel. A level of comfort captivates the listener when she shortly joins the accompaniment, her voice feeling like home. The fear in her voice though differentiates from normalcy on Who I Am. Often adapted to the edgier rocker in Emma, it’s refreshing to see a vulnerable side of her, one who expresses her fears: “When they're saying, saying everything is fine. And I cannot smile, when I hear all the lies.” The title track, “Who I Am” may not express Emma Shaka’s fears, but certainly asserts her vulnerability, too. Slow-paced and based off a light guitar rift, “Who I Am” is a graceful piece that makes the song melancholy, compared to other tracks. Despite the sorrow feelings surrounding the song, Emma Shaka’s vocals are powerful in conveying their message and continue demonstrating the rawness that is constant through Who I Am. The lyrics tell of intellectual thoughts, truly heartbreaking when stating, “All the time, in my life, in my dreams, in my saddest nights. All the time, in my heart, I'm feeling I can't breathe. You don't know who I am. You don't know where I am.” The diversity strikes a chord, helping listeners become aware that Emma Shaka is not your typical artist. Her vocals are truly superb towards the end, when she performs acapella momentarily and illustrating her strength. Superb, absolutely superb, as Emma Shaka touches your heart.

Who I Am concludes with the track “Checking You Were Gone.” Comprised of a rhythmic, twangy guitar strumming, strong drumming – often with the combination of expert hi-hat tapping, driving bass drum slaps, and energetic fills – and the passionate vocals of Emma Shaka, “Checking You Were Gone” is the perfect track to conclude with. Most of impressive of the track is the guitar solo foreshadowing the song’s conclusion, right before it strikes the coda. Spot-on guitar and drumming allow for a hard-hitting, powerful rock track. What electrifies the track, as always, is the strength behind Emma Shaka. Ear-grabbing and aurally pleasing, Emma Shaka is a force to be reckoned with and someone to definitely watch. It’s absolutely rare to find someone with such raw talent combined with such a vehement passion for music. By creating such a diverse, passionate, and overall enjoyable album, Emma Shaka has listeners finishing with one complaint about the ten-track album: they want more.

Review - Alexa Spieler / O'Brien-AMS