Ahead of the launch of album, Rhythms Del Mundo: Africa, we speak
to Rokia Traoré, a Victoires de la Musique award-winning Malian
singer, songwriter and guitarist, whose energy and timeless voice
enriches you on so many levels. Rokia rehearses and creates
her shows in Mali, but whilst touring or has an album coming out,
she is based in France where she has a second home. Her music has
been described as "Afro-beat or Afro-rock-beat", combining
influences from Western music and West African music. Growing
up, we asked the talented singer what influences shaped her music
and formed part of her music background?
I travelled a lot with my family when I was a child. My father
used to be a diplomat. I discovered music as my pleasure
early in my childhood. Travelling in Europe offered me the
opportunity of listening to different European music styles. But,
through my parents, my musical influence remained rooted in my
African culture, African music is the base of my musical
background.
What do you love about singing?
The interconnection between voice, soul and body is something
amazing. For me singing teaches me more about myself and it
helps me to be connected with others.
How has your music changed over the years?
My music probably changed as often as and as much as I have changed
over these last 15 years. And it will certainly change again and
again. What is alive is never done!
What was the first first song you ever sung?
I have been singing since I was a small child, but I don't remember
my first song as such. The first song I sang at the beginning
of my career was OUR RIGHTS, written by the leader of the rap band
I used to be part of when I was 16.
How did the collaboration with Rhythms del Mundo –
Africa come about?
I was contacted by the albums creator Kenny Young, through a
friend of mine. After learning more about the project I decided to
add my musical contribution.
If we were to turn on your iPod or music player right now,
what five artists/songs would we see on your recently played
list?
I can look and tell you now... Bob Marley, Dare Street, Scorpions,
Heandel's Julio Cesar, by René Jacobs (a belgian conductor)
and Salif Keïta (Mali)
Where do you draw inspiration from?
There's no better source of inspiration than everyday life, things
happening all around us.
How do you compose your tracks and what’s your favourite
part about the process?
I usually compose music independently from lyrics. Then I
test pieces of music with different lyrics - kind of mix and match.
Often the lyrics and music change slightly in the process, but it's
always a work in progress!
Do you have a favourite type of guitar or other instrument
to play?
I love the Gretsch! but I discovered a french guitar few months
ago, LAG, it's an electric guitar, it has became one of my
favourites.
What plans do you have over the next few
months?
There is always a lot going on in my life, but one of the main
things I'll be working on these next months is my new album.