Honoring a Pioneer, Elevating a New Generation
BBC Radio 1 has announced the 2025 Annie Nightingale Pioneers, a program that continues Annie Nightingale’s trailblazing legacy by spotlighting outstanding women and non-binary DJs in the global dance and electronic scene. Since the initiative launched in 2021, it has grown into a vital platform for innovation, inclusion, and nascent talent, with each year bringing fresh perspectives to club culture and radio.
The 2025 Pioneers: Three diverse voices shaping the sound of tomorrow
Chosen for their originality and impact, the 2025 cohort includes Heléna Star, Saint Ludo, and TAAHLIAH. Each artist brings a distinct sonic signature, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to expanding what is possible within electronic music.
Heléna Star
Heléna Star is a DJ, radio presenter, and host known for her uplifting sets that traverse house, techno, and global bass. A prominent figure in the UK’s underground scene, she has graced clubs and stages at Fabric, Panorama Bar, Dimensions, Love International, and Glastonbury’s Block9. Her live performances often feature collaborations with artists such as Jayda G, Octo Octa, and Eliza Rose. Off the decks, Heléna hosts a regular show on Foundation FM and co-hosts the podcast “THERAPY,” which explores parenthood within the music industry.
Saint Ludo
Saint Ludo, a DJ and producer born in California, raised in Italy, and now based in London, is known for high-energy sets that blend UK bass, UK garage, and jungle. Her sound has earned praise from Dazed and Mixmag, with support from acts like Chase & Status and Skrillex. A resident on Rinse FM, she has performed at Glastonbury, Reading & Leeds, and The Warehouse Project alongside artists such as Nia Archives and Overmono. Her single “Subliminals” crossed half a million streams as she gears up for her debut EP.
TAAHLIAH
Glasgow-born DJ and producer TAAHLIAH stands out for a bold fusion of pop, club, and experimental music. Her international performances span Fabric, Razzmatazz, Dour Festival, Glastonbury, and Sziget, including a sold-out collaboration with the London Contemporary Orchestra at the Southbank Centre. Her 2024 debut album, Gramarye, received nominations for the Scottish Album of the Year and AIM Awards’ Best Independent Album. She has also shared her insights on BBC 6 Music, filling in for Mary Anne Hobbs.
What this means for fans and for the genre
The Annie Nightingale Pioneers 2025 encompass a broad spectrum of styles while remaining united by a commitment to pushing boundaries and centering voices that have historically been underrepresented in dance music. Each artist will present a bespoke mix on Radio 1, airing Saturday, 8 November from 11pm to 2am, offering listeners a rare, intimate window into their influences and creative process.
Looking ahead
Aled Haydn Jones, Head of Radio 1, emphasizes that the initiative honors Annie Nightingale’s legacy by continually opening doors for new talent. The 2025 Pioneers embody that mission, bringing originality and a forward-looking energy to Radio 1’s late-night slate and beyond. As the dance music landscape evolves, these three artists are poised to shape club culture for years to come.
