Widely considered one of contemporary African music's most exciting new talents, 25-year-old Dobet Gnahoré performs at the Napa Valley Opera House on Saturday, September 22 at 8 p.m. The singer, dancer and percussionist from the Ivory Coast has astounded audiences with her thrilling stage presence, appealing melodies and powerful singing. Tickets are $35 and $30.
The minute Dobet Gnahoré (pronounced DOH-bay gna-OR-ay) steps onto the stage, it's obvious she is something special. She exudes an inner strength and commanding presence that draws you in, even before she opens her mouth to sing. Once Dobet does begin to sing, her voice is filled with emotion and range. She moves from heartfelt ballads to funky, danceable songs with ease, and is comfortable performing in a wide range of African styles.
Eventually, Dobet begins to dance, and the true depth of her talent shines through. She jumps across the stage like an acrobat, a soulful tornado of movement who astounds the audience with her moves. Dobet has got it all; an exceptional voice, amazing dance skills and the engaging aura reserved for artistic greats.
In the fall of 2006, Dobet joined Malian guitarist Habib Koité and South African troubadour Vusi Mahlasela on Putumayo's Acoustic Africa tour, which was presented across Europe and the United States, including a performance at the Napa Valley Opera House. Sharing the stage with these two established African icons, Dobet astounded the audiences with her dynamic talent.
On her recent album, Na Afriki (To Africa), Dobet offers a personal vision of Africa today. Performed in a number of different African languages, the songs address social and political issues: the struggles of women in African society, the exploitation of children, the impact of greed and violence on the family. Dobet calls upon Africa to seek solutions from within and draw upon its own vast resources to create a better future. She sings of love and loss, as well as joy and celebration, using a wide variety of rhythms and styles that reflects her unique pan-African approach. -- www.napavalleyoperahouse.org
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