Zheani Isobel Sparkes, known professionally as Zheani, is a dynamic Australian rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer who has quickly risen as one of the most exciting new names in Australian rap. Born on April 26, 1993, in Bundaberg, Queensland, Zheani’s early life was marked by significant challenges, including the loss of her father and a period living with her mother in Seventeen Seventy, QLD. Despite these hardships, Zheani’s determination to pursue a career in the arts led her to embrace music as her primary outlet for expression.
From a young age, Zheani harbored ambitions of acting but ultimately chose to channel her creative energy into music. Her unique style, which she labels as “fairy trap,” defies conventional genre boundaries. Influenced by a diverse range of genres including industrial, hip-hop, drum & bass, screamo, ambient, glitch, and pop, Zheani has crafted a sound that is as eclectic as it is innovative. Her fearless exploration of trap, hip-hop, and electronic elements sets her apart in the contemporary music scene.
Zheani’s personal experiences deeply inform her songwriting, contributing to the raw and authentic quality of her work. She has released four albums, two EPs, and numerous singles and collaborations, each showcasing her genre-bending artistry. Her approach to learning rap, which she describes as evolving through making “cringey” songs before improving, reflects her commitment to continuous growth and artistic exploration.
As a successful independent artist, Zheani has managed to fully support herself through her music, never having signed to a label. She initially performed exclusively in Australia and Tokyo, Japan, but in 2024, she embarked on her “New Babylon” tour in the US followed by the “Maenad” world tour, which took her to over 15 countries. These tours, fully self-funded, underscore her dedication to her craft and her ability to connect with audiences globally.
Zheani’s journey from a small-town girl with big dreams to a globally recognized artist exemplifies her resilience and innovation. Her ability to navigate and redefine the boundaries of music makes her a compelling figure in the industry, continually pushing the envelope of what is possible in contemporary music.