Otep Shamaya, frontwoman of the long-running metal band OTEP, has revealed that she is retiring from music.
On Saturday (November 16th), Shamaya announced via Facebook that she was “liquidating” her music gear: “Hello. I am liquidating my extensive music equipment: autographed guitars used on tour/studio, a rare Yamaha drum set used by Moke on tour/studio, a FOH Berringer board, X32 for IEM control from stage, stage lighting, smoke machines w/ LED lights, stage monitors & much more.”
She added, “I will provide updates once everything is prepared. Only serious inquiries with serious financial offers will be considered. Thank you for your love & advocacy over the years.”
When fans started to ask in the comments if she was retiring, Shamaya commented, “So many ask why I’m retiring and then I have to sit here and block bozos talking shit. Yes, I’m retiring. For real. For good. My reasons will be given before years end. Thank u to my real ones.”
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Shamaya formed OTEP in Los Angeles in 2000, and was soon tapped by Sharon Osbourne to play Ozzfest 2001. Over the past two decades, the band has released nine full-length albums, beginning with 2002’s Sevas Tra, and ending with 2023’s The God Slayer.
OTEP’s sound has been described as “art house nu-metal,” with their lyrics often taking on political topics. As of now, the band’s last show was May 18th of this year at the Big Rock Inn in Piñon Hills, California, wrapping up a co-headlining outing with the Misfits’ Doyle.
See Otep Shamaya’s Facebook post below, followed by a couple of OTEP’s standout music videos.
