AFRO-BEAT / REGGAE / ROOTS MUSIC
With roots in the tiny Indian Ocean nation of Seychelles, home to a unique culture that fuses Africa, Europe and Asia, Grace Barbe (pronounced Bar-bay) is a singer, songwriter and musician whose music, like her mixed heritage, reflects and celebrates the diverse influences of her Creole culture. The combination of afro-Creole, island roots and reggae, sung in Creole, English and French, laced with modern pop sensibility have created a fresh sound in the world music fusion.
Grace was raised in both Australia and Seychelles, where her mother, a former dancer, ensured that she grew up with knowledge and love for Creole culture. Her high school years in Australia, meanwhile, exposed her to the influences of Western pop, r ‘n’ b and soul. While still at school, Grace taught herself bass guitar and was soon singing, writing and performing in the Seychelles community, local bands, and touring Australia’s remote communities facilitating youth music workshops.
Grace then took up University to study Education, while still pursuing music. Studies took a back seat in 2007 as Grace exploded on to the Australian music scene with the release of her debut single “Mon Arive”. The song achieved significant local and national airplay in Australia, reaching the number one spot on Australia’s Triple J Unearthed Roots chart. The song was also featured on the 2008 WAMI compilations CD.
In her home state of WA, Grace has attracted considerable attention and earned her a loyal following on the strength of her live shows with her band.
An experienced performer with a strong stage presence and a gift for songwriting, Grace and collaborator James Searle won the 2006 WAMI ‘Song of the Year’ award in the world and folk category for their song “Mon Ankor Anmoure”.
Grace has just finished recording her debut album “Kreol Daughter”, with UK mixer/producer, Jeremy Allom, best known for mixing Massive Attack’s first famous album, ‘Blue Lines’ and working with artists such as Freddy McGregor, Sly & Robbie and Maxie Priest. The album has been four years in the making and is due to be released December 2008.
Great things can be expected from this rising star of the Seychelles as she brings her island roots to world stages!
Pour les fans de la star Seychelloise, Grace Barbe. Pour ceux et celles qui adorent sa musique.
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