Somi: A Voice for African Music on the Global Stage
In 2021, Somi Kakoma made history by becoming the first African woman nominated for a Grammy in any jazz category. Fast forward four years, and she’s become a key figure in promoting African music worldwide.
“It’s been amazing to see how our music is reaching every corner of the globe,” Somi shared in a recent interview with CNN’s Larry Madowo. She added that the world is beginning to view African artists differently, reflecting a richer understanding of what it means to engage with contemporary culture.
Somi expressed her gratitude for the visibility her fellow artists provide, helping to shine a light on many other talented musicians.
Recently, artists have been seeking recognition beyond the popular “Afrobeats” genre. The Grammys even introduced a new award in 2024 for Best African Music Performance, recognizing the diversity of sounds from the 54 countries across the continent. However, Somi believes the journey is far from over. “We still have a chance to break away from the idea that African music is a single sound,” she noted.
Born in Illinois to Rwandan and Ugandan parents, Somi’s music is deeply influenced by her experiences as a child of immigrants.
“This ongoing conversation about what home means is so important to me,” Somi said. She emphasized the significance of storytelling, not just about music, but also about the everyday lives of African people, whether they reside on the continent or in the diaspora.
