Rokia Traoré - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. Rokia Traoré is a Malian singer, songwriter, and guitarist who is known for her unique blend of traditional Malian music with influences from jazz, blues, and rock.
- 2. She was born on January 24, 1974 in Kolokani, Mali, into a prominent Malian family. Her father was a diplomat and her mother was a singer.
- 3. Traoré's music often addresses social and political issues, as well as personal experiences. She sings in multiple languages, including Bambara, French, and English.
- 4. She released her debut album, "Mouneïssa," in 1998, which received critical acclaim and established her as a rising star in the world music scene.
- 5. Traoré has collaborated with a number of renowned artists, including Damon Albarn, Toumani Diabaté, and Ali Farka Touré.
- 6. In addition to her music career, Traoré is also a committed activist, advocating for women's rights and social justice in Mali and beyond.
- 7. She has won numerous awards for her music, including a BBC Radio 3 Award for World Music in 2009 and a Victoires de la Musique award in 2010.
- 8. Traoré's music has been described as soulful, haunting, and powerful, with her distinctive voice and intricate guitar playing drawing comparisons to artists like Tracy Chapman and Oumou Sangaré.
- 9. She has performed at major music festivals around the world, including Glastonbury, WOMAD, and the Montreux Jazz Festival.
- 10. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, including a highly-publicized custody battle for her daughter in 2016, Traoré continues to create music that resonates with audiences around the globe.