What would Kate Sheppard think if she could see the world today?
It’s a question that sits at the heart of ‘@kateshepp_1893’, the new single from Kirikiriroa artist Lehali, and one that feels as relevant now as ever.
Blending infectious electronic pop with thoughtful social commentary, the track reflects on the ongoing conversation around women’s rights and the gap that can sometimes exist between the progress we celebrate and the realities many women still face today.
For Lehali, the song was inspired by revisiting the legacy of one of Aotearoa’s most influential historical figures and wondering how she might respond to the challenges and debates unfolding around the world in 2026.
The result is a track that manages to be both reflective and uplifting. While the subject matter carries weight, ‘@kateshepp_1893’ never loses its sense of energy, combining vibrant production with the confident songwriting that has become a hallmark of Lehali’s music.
Co-produced by Lehali alongside Frank Keys, the single also highlights her continued growth as an artist, producer and storyteller. Drawing on her Ni-Vanuatu and Māori heritage, Lehali has built a reputation for creating music that sits comfortably between contemporary pop and purposeful storytelling, using her platform to explore identity, culture and the experiences of young Indigenous people in Aotearoa.
‘@kateshepp_1893’ marks the beginning of a new chapter for the 21-year-old artist, serving as the first release from Lifting the Veil, a forthcoming four-track collection that will roll out over the coming weeks. The project will eventually lead into her highly anticipated visual album Hear Our Voices, due later this year.
If this first release is anything to go by, listeners can expect a project that is both unafraid to ask important questions and committed to celebrating the voices and stories that deserve to be heard.
For now, ‘@kateshepp_1893’ stands confidently on its own – a catchy, thought-provoking reminder that progress is worth celebrating, but also worth protecting.
@kateshepp_1893 is available now on all major streaming platforms.