Arjuna Oakes, a New Zealand-born singer, songwriter, pianist, composer, and producer, has been making significant strides in the music scene since his debut EP, The Watcher, in 2019. Currently based in London and with his debut album, While I’m Distracted released earlier this year, Arjuna continues to push the boundaries creating genre-defying compositions that transport listeners into an evocative musical experience. 

Arjuna has released several acclaimed projects, including collaborations with Serebii on First Nights and Final Days released on LA based label Innovative Leisure. Arjuna collaborated with esteemed Greek/Kiwi composer John Psathas on the projects Future Lullaby and Sierra, the former was recorded in Athens with an ensemble of exceptional musicians. He also served as a composer-in-residence for Orchestra Wellington. Arjuna has recently been making a name for himself in the UK Jazz scene, with sold out performances at Ronnie Scott’s and Manchester Jazz Festival, as well as radio support from tastemakers Gilles Peterson, Jamie Callum, China Moses, and Harvey Sutherland. He is set to support Bilal at The Village Underground this November as a part of The London Jazz Festival.

Throughout his career, Arjuna has scored theater productions, written for string quartets and toured extensively, opening for artists such as Jordan Rakei, Moonchild, Allen Stone, and most recently Nathan Haines at the Jazz Cafe in London. He was also invited to perform in Paris for the New Zealand Olympic Team ahead of the 2024 Games, and was selected as a Spotify fresh finds artist in 2024 with billboards showcased around London. Additionally, alongside drummer Sam Notman, he launched a fortnightly jam night in North London, creating a thriving music community in his neighborhood, and hosts a monthly Soho Radio residency, featuring his eclectic selections and special guests.