Somi
Elbphilharmonie Jazz
Music is a kind of universal identity enabling the exploration of new terrain for the African-American jazz and soul singer Somi. Her parents’ East African roots and an upbringing split between the US state of Illinois and the Southern African country of Zambia are all united in her music to create a truly cosmopolitan sound.
The rise of the 1979 US-born singer’s career is characterised by smooth jazz vocals, polyrhythmic »African« grooves and lyrics on social consciousness. For her latest album »The Lagos Music Salon«, the songwriter, who now calls New York City home, spent 18 months in the bustling metropolis Lagos, Nigeria searching for new influences and her African roots.
In songs like »Four African Women«, Somi sings in her voluminous, smoky contralto on controversial issues such as skin bleaching, circumcision, prostitution and genocide. Her clear musical language, powerful live shows and active political engagement mean that Somi is frequently compared to great singers such as Nina Simone and Miriam Makeba.
Performers
Somi vocals
Toru Dodo piano
Laurent-Emmanuel Bertholo drums
Gino Chantoiseau bass