Selected: Desta French (Latinas Of London) – UK Latin parties reppin’ the diaspora sound
To celebrate the landmark third Latinas Of London event, Desta French pulls together some diaspora recommendations…






Latinas of London Vol. 3: A Celebration of London’s Dynamic Latin Female Voices
The Jazz Café, London – Saturday, 6th September 2025 TICKETS HERE
Latinas of London is a night dedicated to showcasing the phenomenal female artists redefining London’s Latin music scene – the third event takes places this Saturday September 6th 2025.
Lined up to perform are Desta French, Lisey Tigra, Luzmira Zerpa and Brisa – from jazz and cumbia to alt-pop and bolero, these artists are weaving powerful new narratives of identity and artistry and destroying the perceived popular British notion of Latin music as a monolith.
Leading the night is Desta French, who has kindly pulled together a list of recommended diaspora nights for Groovement below.

From the press release:
Desta is a Camden native and proud Chonga, whose music draws on jazz, hip-hop, cumbia, and R&B. Known for pushing boundaries with a sound rooted deeply in both her Colombian-Italian heritage and London upbringing, French became the first UK Latin artist to receive BBC Radio support for an all-Spanish track and her evocative songwriting and fearless style continue to place her at the forefront of London’s Latin renaissance.
Joining her is Lisey Tigra, a UK-Colombian alt-pop artist who electrifies audiences with dark, glamorous performances and razor-sharp guitar work. Tigra seamlessly blends Latin influences with rock and electronic textures, inspired by icons like Lady Gaga and Guns N’ Roses. Also gracing the stage is Luzmira Zerpa, a Venezuelan singer-songwriter who has performed everywhere from Glastonbury to India’s Udaipur World Music Festival, collaborating with legends like Marshall Allen (Sun Ra Arkestra), Mulatu Astatke, and Manu Chao. And completing the lineup is Brisa, a Peruvian jazz singer-songwriter whose warm, poetic voice has captivated listeners across London’s intimate venues.
Together, these boundary-pushing women are transforming the soundscape of London, creating music that is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself.
Latinas of London Vol. 3 is presented by Como No, Jazz Café, Desta French, and La Chonga. Tickets are on sale now and available here: Latinas of London Tickets
Selected: Desta French (Latinas Of London) – UK Latin parties reppin’ the diaspora sound
Living London
“Living London is Latin run Salsa all night until 5am at the Steel Yard.
It’s the best place for real Colombian salsa, I’d say it’s the closest kind of vibe to being in Cali.“
Nollywood London
“They host a night called Salsa City in Camberwell, with Bachata, Dembow, and Salsa playing all night long.
There’s a tiny, hole-in-the-wall spot where you pay entry at the door. I’ve had some of my best nights here.
Once, I even saw the lead singer from El Grupo Niche do a live PA, which was incredible to witness in London.“
Époka (Colour Factory)
“A LatinX-run night at Colour Factory, bringing multi-genre sounds from Latin, Reggaeton, Dembow, and Dancehall.
Curated by @bushbby and @papaoul, it’s always a vibe.
If you’re lucky, you might catch Bushbby on the decks, which is reason enough to go. One of my favourite sets here was from @bonyFly, unforgettable!“
2cPerrea
“Latin run Techno / Latincore nights by @tedesco, who I met at a shoot for London fashion week a few years ago, walking for British designer @adamfrost. It’s amazing to see them moving this scene forward.“
Twerk Temple / Dalston superstore

Chonga Nights
“Chonga Nights, which is one of our babies.
“Expect live Cumbia at NTS Lounge, Hackney, a night that brings the spirit of Latin family parties to the dancefloor.
“The evening features bands made up of musicians with Latin heritage from across the scene, celebrating the classics and reimagining them for today.
“It’s a cross-generational experience, blending tradition with nightlife energy, and a chance to feel the warmth, rhythm, and togetherness that makes Cumbia timeless.“

