CARMEN SOUZA

When we talk about Carmen Souza, we are most certainly talking about the Cabo Verdean artist who has had the most success in the European music scene and has accumulated award-winning albums. The European critics have wholeheartedly embraced her.

"Esse ê nha Cabo Verde" marked the beginning of Carmen Souza's career, where she infused her distinct style into the musical airwaves. This immediately piqued interest, leading her to the renowned WOMAD festival that same year. From the outset, she discovered her musical comfort zone, characterized by intimacy, delicacy, and a willingness to explore new horizons. It is relevant to note the invaluable production and musical support provided by her collaborator and career partner - Theo Pascal.

In 2008, the album "Verdade" and in 2010 "Protegid" began accumulating accolades, with the latter cementing her connection with the German record label Galileo Music, a partnership which lasts to this day. This duo of albums played a pivotal role in shaping her career and foreshadowed forthcoming triumphs.

The refined musical forces continue to flourish, and Cármen presents to us "Kachupada," which wins awards in Cabo Verde at the CVMA and receives high praise from the French World Music critics, earning a top rating in Télérama. From France to the global stage, her rise was swift, and soon she was acknowledged by NPR Jazz Critics as one of the 31 finest Jazz vocalists worldwide. In 2015, her latest endeavor, "Epístola," showcased an impressive interpretation of Moonlight Serenade, accompanied by a distinctive percussion instrument made in Cabo Verde referred to as ‘ferrinho'.

In 2019, "The Silver Messengers" once again accumulated awards, gaining recognition from esteemed publications like Downbeat Magazine and Songlines Magazine. Noteworthy highlights include her renditions of "Song for My Father" and "Cabo Verdean Blues." Her subsequent album, "Interconnectedness," featuring a remarkable rendition of "Pata Pata," secured a position in the top 15 of the finest World Music albums in the WMCE rankings.

Cabo Verde has officially recognized Carmen Souza and bestowed upon her the Silver Medal for cultural merit from the Government of Cabo Verde. Throughout her career, she has consistently held Cabo Verde close to her heart while embracing Afro-Jazz on the other side. This fusion is evident in her captivating renditions of songs like "Sodade" and "6 one na Tarrafal." As a result of her outstanding achievements and acclaim from European critics, Carmen Souza, the Cabo Verdean artist with a remarkable track record of award-winning albums, will be gracing our KJF 23 event. In the spirit of "Lady Music - Carmen: Vida e pa celebra," we are honored to have her presence among us.