Known for her innovative musical style which she has coined as "New African Jazz," Somi has captivated audiences around the world with her soulful voice and impeccable cello skills. Born on June 6, 1979 in Champaign, Illinois, Somi's musical journey started at a young age and has led her to become a celebrated jazz singer.
Somi's childhood was marked by a unique blend of cultures, as she moved between Illinois and Zambia before settling in Illinois. Growing up in a household with immigrant parents from Rwanda and Uganda, Somi was exposed to a rich tapestry of sounds and traditions that would later influence her musical style. She attended high school and college in Illinois before pursuing her graduate studies at NYU.
It was during her time at NYU that Somi's talent truly started to shine. She began performing at local jazz clubs and quickly gained a following for her mesmerizing performances. In 2009, she released her debut album "If The Rains Come First," which received critical acclaim and established her as a rising star in the jazz world. She followed this success with her sophomore album "The Lagos Music Salon," which further solidified her reputation as a boundary-pushing artist.
Outside of her musical pursuits, Somi remains grounded in her family roots. Her father, who once worked for the World Health Organization, instilled in her a sense of social responsibility and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world. This ethos is reflected in Somi's music, which often touches on themes of identity, migration, and social justice.
As Somi continues to evolve as an artist, her music remains a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of music to transcend boundaries. With each performance, she invites audiences to embark on a journey of discovery and exploration, inviting them to see the world through her unique musical lens.
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