Colombian-Kiwi singer-songwriter Manuela blends Spanish and English in her music to showcase elements from both sides of her cultural identity. Her music fuses reggaeton, jazz and RnB and it tells stories of youth and love. Raised by artistic parents, Manuela was continuously encouraged to explore artistic expression and she began singing and dancing at a very young age. Always drawing inspiration from the Latin American music heard in her family home and the popular music on the radio. “I remember when I was young a typical Saturday morning at my mother’s house always consisted of the loud sound of salsa and merengue always playing out of the kitchen. This music always had me dancing while I would help my mum with chores around the house.” After immigrating to New Zealand from Colombia in 1999, Manuela’s family maintained the use of their native language, and although Manuela moved to New Zealand at the tender age of three, Spanish continues to be a part of Manuela’s personal and musical life. Manuela formed her first band at the age of twelve and she began teaching herself guitar to accompany her singing voice. Through these musically formative years, Manuela listened to Amy Winehouse’ album and Shakira’s album on repeat. The songwriting styles of these two artists inspired Manuela to pursue a career in songwriting.