MANOU GALLO
From: Ivory Coast
On stage: Sun 07 Jul 23:40
She was destined to be an artist. The kind of artist who collects every available piece of art and ultimately builds her rich and unique style. Today, she reigns as a queen, captivating audiences worldwide with her skills as a bassist and singer.
Her musical journey began at the tender age of 12. She embarked on tours across various African countries, absorbing the diverse sounds that would later shape her distinctive style. Additionally, she honored her craft as a member of theater and dance companies, enhancing her powerful stage presence and captivating charisma.
Collaborations with renowned artists such as Zap Mama, Tambours de Brazza, and Ray Lema grace her musical repertoire. She fearlessly reinterprets the works of masters like Fela Kuti, infusing her artistry into tracks like the mesmerizing "Lady," employing music as a potent tool to address unspoken truths.
Bootsy Collins, an iconic figure in the Funk genre, renowned for his contributions to both James Brown and the legendary Funkadelick, produced her latest studio album, "Afro Groove Queen." With Bootsy's explosive soul-funk, alongside the talents of Mr. Di Bango and Sabine Kabongo from Zap Mama, this album delivers an exquisite and energetically charged fusion.
Her 2005 album, "Dida," already showcased her penchant for exploring African sounds with immense creativity and a modern touch. This paved the way for her most recent opus, "Afro Groove Queen," where a dynamic bass intertwines with distinctive percussion, enveloped by powerful and present voices. It is a celebration of funk's explosive energy and a refined blend of contemporary African traditions. Previous works also featured elements of Zap Mama's vocal techniques, jazz, and even Latin rhythms.
Considering all that has been mentioned, it is clear that this is a must-see moment to experience the artistry of Manou. We eagerly anticipate your presence at KJF 23, where a guaranteed musical journey awaits.