Razia Said (born December 1, 1959) is a singer, songwriter, and environmental activist from Antalaha, Madagascar.

Razia
Birth nameRazia Said
Born (1959-12-01) December 1, 1959 (age 64)
OriginAntalaha, Madagascar
GenresWorld music
Occupation(s)Singer-songwriter
Instrument(s)Vocal, guitar
LabelsCumbancha
Websitewww.raziasaid.com

Career

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Razia's music draws elements from Malagasy music and Afrobeats. She began incorporating features of jazz and R&B to her music after visiting New York in 1987.[1]

In 2006, Razia recorded her album Magical after relocating to New York. During her subsequent visits to Madagascar, she met Njava, one of the country's prominent musical groups. Inspired by her experiences in Madagascar, Razia began writing and recording songs in the Malagasy language,incorporating traditional sounds and melodies from her childhood.[2]

Razia's music often focuses on environmental issues, particularly the protection and preservation of Madagascar's natural environment.[3] She addresses the impacts of climate change and deforestation through her songs.[4] According to an article in Broadway World her album The Road features "a warm, welcoming set of songs that take us deep into the emotional reality of Razia's self-made, globe-spanning life."[5]

Discography

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  • Magical (2006)
  • Zebu Nation (2010)
  • Akory (2015)
  • The Road (2018)

References

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  1. ^ Matthew, Keyte (November 13, 2015). "Razia Said And The Wake Up Madagascar Project". Culture Trip. Retrieved February 28, 2024.
  2. ^ Hochman, Steven (February 2, 2010). "Razia's Prodigal Return to Imperiled Madagascar". Spinner (AOL). Retrieved September 19, 2012.
  3. ^ Nickson, Chris. "'Zebu Nation' – Review". Allmusic (Rovi Corporation). Retrieved September 19, 2012.
  4. ^ "Razia Said". The Lemur Conservation Foundation.
  5. ^ Hartshorn, Tori. "RAZIA Releases New CD, THE ROAD, on October 19". BroadwayWorld.com. Retrieved July 19, 2022.

Further reading

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  • Billboard magazine article
  • MTV Iggy article
  • L'Express de Madagascar article
  • Exclaim! album review
  • Boston Globe album review (subscription required)