LOUISE HARRIS
2 May, 2025
News

London's Reeshma Sultana supports MS Awareness Week

Reeshma Sultana is a shining new talent emerging from London, a singer/songwriter and musician whose powerful voice resonates with those who have faced adversity

Reeshma's Debut Single

A true fighter, she bravely navigates the challenges of living with Multiple Sclerosis, using music as her creative outlet and a source of escapism from her daily battles. Even in her darkest moments, Reeshma embodies positivity, transforming her struggles into inspiring songs that empower anyone confronting life's toughest hurdles, from health issues, divorce, trauma to personal loss.

With roots in South London, Reeshma began her musical journey at the age of 18, driven by an unshakeable passion for rhythm and melody. Her early experiences of reciting prayers, which have a rhythmic poetic quality, laid the foundation for her instinctive connection to music. Drawing inspiration from the soulful pop sounds of R&B and influenced by iconic artists such as Madonna, Aretha Franklin, Alexander O’Neal, Toni Braxton and LeAnn Rimes fused with the emotive power of Bollywood, her music beautifully merges heartfelt lyrics with driving melodies.

Reeshma's journey through life with Multiple Sclerosis has been profoundly shaped by her passion for singing, which serves as a vital coping mechanism amidst a world filled with doctors, physiotherapists, and countless medical appointments. Ten years ago she was diagnosed with ‘Progressive Multiple Sclerosis’, which ultimately left her reliant on a wheelchair. To complicate matters, she travelled abroad for a hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) which sadly didn’t go to plan. The chemotherapy involved led to kidney failure, which now requires her to undergo dialysis three times a week. After the stem cell transplant she then developed sepsis, which brought her to the brink of death as her vital organs began to fail. Specialist consultants advised her family to prepare for the worst and say their goodbyes.

Every day is a battle against intense pain. She depends on a dedicated team of nurses and other healthcare professionals to help her manage her challenges. She has faced multiple medical interventions, battling low confidence and self-esteem issues often accompanied by depression. However, singing has not only enhanced her lung capacity but has also significantly contributed to her mental health and overall wellbeing. Focusing on creating music and crafting heartfelt singles has become a lifeline for her. Reeshma writes her songs by speaking them aloud into her iPad, allowing her emotions to flow freely. Currently, she is preparing songs for her debut album, which includes powerful and emotive tracks like ‘Bully’ and ‘Not With Me’. Collaborating with talented producer Marcus Johnson, known for his work with hit acts such as Beverly Knight, Sabrina Washington aka Mis-teeq and hit songwriter/singer Ali Tenant.

Reeshma's upcoming debut single Switching Channels is set for release on the 2nd May 2025, which also co-incides with MS Awareness Week. It’s a poignant reflection of her life experiences (focusing on amongst other challenging narratives) moving forward from toxic relationships. With its soulful funky rhythm and melodic sultry pop vocals, the song will immediately hook listeners and showcase Reeshma's unique sound. As she prepares to share her story and music with the world, Reeshma is not just an artist; she is a beacon of hope and inspiration.