Célia Wa

Singer-flutist Celia Wa unveils a bold and introspective debut album.
Her “karibfutursound” fuses traditional Gwoka rhythms with rich influences of soul, jazz, amapiano, and electronic music feat. Roger Raspail, with arrangements by David Walters.

In the ever-evolving musical universe, a voice emerges, carrying echoes of a rich past and the promises of a bold future. Célia Wa, the talented Guadeloupean artist, offers us "Fasadé," her debut album, a sonic odyssey transcending borders and eras.

The path to "Fasadé" was not without obstacles. Three EPs marked this journey, like a challenging expedition through the mountainous islands of the Caribbean. Yet, nothing could shake the determination of this artist driven by a powerful and unwavering Creole identity; indelible marks left in the collective memory of a people, told in Creole tales.

Even without fully mastering its nuances, Célia's interpretive strength, accompanied by her music and all that embellishes it, make the intention impossible to miss. You cannot help but be swept away by the emotions guiding each of the nine tracks. This energy transcends anger and the thirst for vengeance born from moments where life opened fault lines beneath her feet, from which she had to ascend, sometimes with difficulty.

However, from all this emerged an unyielding resilience. Guided by love, faith, and passion, she continues to move forward with assured steps. Ideas for tracks are born, foundations sketched, before gathering around those who have become a steadfast core for ten years: Xavier Belin's keyboards and Kristof Négrit's drums. Adding to the trio is David Walters, whom Célia accompanied on the concert circuit for a long time, contributing with his compositions and arrangements. Together, they create a sound that travels far beyond the Caribbean borders.

Infused with all that musically nourishes her Guadeloupe, her heart beating like a gwoka drum, invigorated by Roger Raspail's thunderous percussion, and rocked by Kingston's laid-back reggae, Celia surpasses the limits of the Caribbean arc alone. She braves an ocean of irreversible journeys to connect with Senegal and Ousmane Kouyaté's kora, and further east to Nigeria and Owomide's song. Reconnecting with common roots and pasts, blending differences into a formula that fosters natural exchange and mutual contribution.
Above all, music must liberate bodies and minds, even the most marked. It serves as an outlet for the darkest moments, leaving them far behind. And it makes us dance
Welcome to the karibfutursound.