South African music producer and DJ Desiree has officially been announced as part of the Coachella 2025 line-up, marking a historic moment for African electronic music.
Her inclusion represents a broader recognition of Africa’s growing influence on global music, particularly in the electronic genre. Desiree’s selection underscores the importance of diversity and the power of authenticity in a rapidly evolving music industry.
As an intersex woman from Ivory Park, Johannesburg, her success is not just a personal achievement but a beacon of hope for artists worldwide who strive to break barriers and define their unique paths.
Desiree has built a reputation for her distinct blend of Afro-house, techno, and soul, a sound that encapsulates the vibrancy of South African culture and the universal language of rhythm. Reflecting on her inclusion in the iconic festival’s line-up, she expressed both excitement and gratitude.
“Coachella is a dream come true. The thought of playing Coachella still gives me butterflies,” she shared. “My journey from Ivory Park to one of electronic music’s biggest stages is proof that staying true to yourself and your sound can take you places you never imagined.”
Her upcoming performances at Coachella are slated for April 13 and 20, 2025, where she promises to bring her unique energy and deeply personal story to the global stage.
The Coachella debut follows a whirlwind year for Desiree, who made significant waves in 2024 with performances at the UK’s Glastonbury and Lost Village festivals. These landmark appearances solidified her as a formidable force in electronic music, earning her a loyal international fan base.
As she prepares for her Coachella debut, Desiree is also gearing up for an African tour, an ambitious project that will take her artistry to audiences across the continent. Starting in December, the tour will include stops in Johannesburg, Cape Town, St. Francis, Lagos, and Kilifi, offering fans a chance to experience her electrifying performances firsthand.
In addition to her live performances, Desiree is bringing new music to her audience with the release of her latest EP, Intersexy. This two-track project showcases her growth as an artist and her commitment to using music as a medium for empowerment.
The EP features “Khuluma Nami,” a collaboration with Jabulile Majola, and the cinematic title track, “Intersexy.” Speaking about the project, Desiree described it as “a proclamation of empowerment for those often overlooked.” The tracks blend orchestral grandeur with haunting melodies, creating a soundscape that resonates on both emotional and physical levels, seamlessly bridging introspection and celebration.
Desiree’s Mmino party series will also return as part of her tour, offering a platform to celebrate African electronic music and culture. This initiative is deeply personal for the artist, as it represents her mission to highlight the richness of African artistry within a global context.
“I want to show the world that Africa is not just a contributor to music but a leader in innovation and storytelling,” she said. The series has become a cultural touchstone for fans of electronic music, uniting people through shared rhythms and a deep appreciation for the continent’s diverse soundscapes.
Through her journey, Desiree continues to embody the spirit of resilience and innovation. Her ability to merge her personal narrative with her artistry has resonated with audiences worldwide, proving that music is a powerful tool for connection and representation.
As she prepares for her Coachella debut, releases new music, and embarks on an African tour, Desiree is redefining what it means to be a global artist. “I’m excited to bring my whole self to every stage – my story, my music, my energy,” she said. “It’s going to be something special.”
