DOBET GNAHORE Biography
“There are some voices that only need a couple of minutes to put the public under their spell. Dobet Gnahoré has one of those voices.”
Dobet Gnahoré, a singer, dancer and percussionist from the Ivory Coast, inherited the force of the “Bété“ tradition from her father, Boni Gnahoré, a master percussionist who plays with the Abidjan-based Ki-Yi Mbock Company, directed by Werewere Liking. In this artistic collective Dobet learned music, dans, theatre during several years.
It was within this Ivory Coast-based company that Dobet met French guitarist Colin Laroche de Féline, who went there to immerse himself in African melodies and rhythms.
Having spent some time in the well-known Tché Tché dance company, Dobet decided with Colin (in 1999) to form a twosome, Ano Neko, which means “Let’s create together“ in Bété language.
2000The twosome toured widely in France (1999-2000) and, like suggested by Ray Lema & Lokua Kanza, she recorded her first songs in Paris
2001They took part in MASA (famous African Arts Market in Abijan) and, while they were there, they recorded eight songs under the supervision of the late Marcellin Yacé, who was killed during the first day of rioting in the autumn of 2002.
2003their artistic project refocused on Dobet Gnahoré’s name and expanded when a backup vocalist and a percussionist joined the duo.
2004The label Contre-Jour produced her first album entitled “Ano Neko“, making the link with Dobet and Colin’s story.
2006Dobet took part at the project «Acoustic Africa» withHabib Koite (from Mali) andVusi Mahalasela(from South Africa) and was touring in Europe & Usa
2007Release of te second album of Dobet Gnahore «Na Afriki» (My Africa)
2009Dobet is invited by Angelique Kidjofor a tribute to famous South African singer Myriam Makebawith Rokia Traoré, Asha, Ayo, Sayon Bamba and Vusi mahlasela.
2010In January, Dobet wonaGrammy Awardwith the US singer India Ariefor the remix of her song "Palea", track of the album "Na Afriki".
2 months later, , Dobet released her 3rd album, "Djekpa la you" (children of the world) eand does continue of touring around the world with a total of more than 500 concerts in 6 years
2012 - 2013Dobet took part to a new Acoustic Africa version with Manou Gallo and Kareyce Fotso with tours in West Africa,, US & European
2014 Release of her 4th album«Na Drê»
On stage, her voice, her charisma and her huge presence, the result of several years theatrical and choreographic work, has great audience appeal.
Dobet Gnahore – Biography – -