International Women's Day 2025

On Saturday 8th March, we joined up with talent from across the North West to celebrate International Women’s Day. The extended broadcast brought together spoken word poetry, DJ sets, and talk shows. Lasting over 9 hours, the content resonated deeply with a mission here at CROP to amplify and champion underrepresented voices in the underground scene.

Starting off, a panel discussion hosted by Rebecca Elizabeth Shaw with Zolatec, Chelsea Teesdale (WHP/Parklife), kusasa (Sisu Crew) and MYNA (The Beatriarchy) covered the experience of being a woman in the creative industry. It was an illuminating conversation, providing valuable insights into an issue gaining increasing traction in conversation surrounding the arts. We look forward to platforming more content that continues this momentum.

From there, Eves’ Drop Collective joined CROP resident DJ and producer Sanchia Rusike. They’re a staple in the Manchester scene, operating since 2020. Their mission is simple: to encourage women behind the mic and decks.

Discability also hosted their first ever talk show to discuss the importance of creating an accessible scene for disabled artists, ravers and workers. At a time when the UK’s nightlife culture is coming under increasing threat, innovative work, like that spearheaded by the organisation, is the key to securing a more equitable and vibrant future.

Furthermore, we brought a stacked lineup of all-female and non-binary artists, including: IWD Cypher featuring Awedinary, mamba.exe, FOXI, FREEQUENCY3, Bee Rosebud, Vispera and Wor Lass.

To follow on, we were treated to an hour of spoken word. Cultivated and performed by Biz Bond, Sophia Harari and Fauzia, we were led on a of journey of thought provoking introspections, reflections and insights. By harnessing the power of the spoken word, we heard a diverse delivery through the many angles of the female lens.

Bringing the day to a close, we were treated to a beautifully curated line up of female DJs. Blending musical styles, we saw sets from Atlanta, Eveliz and Adele Tondu b2b Girlfriend. The Crop Radio studio was filled with high energy, eclectic and feel good tracks, proving to provide a powerful and meaningful showcase of female talent and energy.

Crop Radio’s International Women’s Day celebrations fostered a sense of unity, community and empowerment. The event was a powerful testament to the creativity and strength of women within our community and female talent across the north west of the UK. From MCs to DJs, the lineup demonstrated yet only a small fraction of the diverse artistic expression which thrives throughout our local scene. The energy and passion displayed by the day’s artists left us inspired and eager to do it all again next year. We continue to commit to amplifying the voices of women and celebrating their contribution to the vibrant music culture in Manchester, the North West and beyond.