Somi at Umbria Jazz on July 18

Vocalist, composer and playwright Somi forms a bridge between the African roots and the American jazz and soul scene. She is considered the creator of “New African Jazz”, and the New York Times wrote: “African grooves, supple jazz singing and compassionate social consciousness; She is both serious and seductive”. A perfect synthesis.

She grew up between Illinois and Zambia – her parents come from Uganda and Rwanda – and holds an Anthropology degree and a Master’s degree from Tisch School of the Arts at New York University. Somi is considered a modern-day Miriam Makeba. Indeed, she composed the musical “Dreaming Zanzile”, dedicated to the great South African singer and activist. Somi also honors her with her fifth album, “Zenzile: The Reimagination of Miriam Makeba”, to celebrate what would have been Makeba’s ninety birthday. The album was awarded Best Jazz Vocal Performance at the Jazz Music Awards.

Previously, her live album “Holy Room”, featuring the Frankfurt Radio Big Band, earned her a Grammy nomination for Best Jazz Vocal Album and won the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Jazz Vocal Album. “Petite Afrique”, about the immigration experience in the US, was released in 2017.

Artistically speaking, Somi has also been compared to Dianne Reeves, Nina Simone and Dee Dee Bridgewater.

This young singer-songwriter’s songbook includes many inspirations from different worlds like Africa and America, linked together by the expressive intensity and a flexible and highly natural vocality.

For her commitment to civil rights, she was asked to perform at the United Nations’ General Assembly in commemoration of the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery, and at Carnegie Hall to celebrate the 25th anniversary of democracy in South Africa. She returns to Umbria Jazz after last year’s debut.