Those unfamiliar with the vast history of Western music may be ignorant to the fact that the music of West and North Africa has played a major role in the development of globally famous music. From Rock and Roll to Rap and Hip Hop, almost all of the music enjoyed by a global audience today descends from either African and African-Diaspora music groups and musical styles. It comes as no surprise then that music from African artists continues to shape the global music scene- and this week's Wonder Woman is no exception. Diarra Sylla was born in Paris in 2001 to Senegalese heritage, and her family moved to Senegal when Sylla was still a child. After perfoming on stage at six years-old, Sylla knew she wanted to make a career out of her music.
Diarra Sylla's family were not so keen on the idea of Sylla trying to make a career in the music industry however. Estranged from her father, Sylla faced four years of opposition from her mother until her mom allowed her to compete in a prominent singing competition in 2016. Syllah took home first place, and gained instant recognition among the African music scene. In 2017, Syllah auditioned to join the band Now United in Los Angeles and because one of the founding members of the group and the only member from any country in Africa. Sylla performed with the band for three years before branching off to launch a solo career.
Diarra Sylla's solo style blends elements of contemporary West African pop music styles, but what's more impressive are her music videos. Sylla's music videos blend modern and historical West African art movements to develop imagery showcasing the diverse fashion and art styles of West African history blended with music that combines historical and contemporary music styles. That may be why Sylla has rapidly become the most followed Senegalese woman on Instragram. Sylla likely has a long career ahead of her, so there will be plenty to see in how her music evolves; but what's incredible about her and artists like her is that they are creating a global market for African artists in which the artists can drive the future of the industry. White record owners and American record labels have long overseen (and had full decision-making power over) the development of African and African Diaspora music. Artists like Diarra Sylla however are helping to demolish colonialism in the global music market however- and in the best possible ways.
Comments