Women of the World: Voices

WOMEN OF THE WORLD: VOICES is a unique presentation of three very distinct musical styles by three very remarkable women. This special collaboration celebrates the universal spirit of women through the singing traditions of Mali, Albania and Ireland.

Nahawa Doumbia, Merita Halili and Susan McKeown are all vocalists who have achieved international acclaim as performers whose work reflects their native tradition. WOMEN OF THE WORLD is a unique a cappella performance, exploring the true beauty and captivating power of the human voice.

NAHAWA DOUMBIA is a taboo-breaker. Born in a remote Malian village, of humble origins, she was catapulted to national fame during the early years of her country's independence. She forged her own path with a commanding voice and outspoken lyrics that addressed contemporary issues and challenged social ills. Since then, Nahawa has become a Malian icon, preserving all the charm of her young voice and becoming one of West Africa's most distinctive singers.

On stage she is unaffected, spontaneous, a dynamic and humorous dancer, and she sings from the heart.
-fRoots

MERITA HALILI grew up in Albania's capital, Tirana, singing the lyric songs of her native region. As a member of the State Ensemble for Folk Song and Dance, Merita's unique approach and distinctive voice set her apart and she rose to fame as a soloist whose songs became favorites with her people - every party started with one of her songs. In the wake of the collapse of Albania's communist dictatorship Merita was named a cultural ambassador. She now makes her home in the United States.

With her powerful and expressive voice, Halili breathed new life into the intricate rhythms and extravagantly ornamented melodies.
-The Star-Ledger

SUSAN McKEOWN grew up in Dublin, Ireland and from an early age was drawn to her native language and songs. A scholarship to a performing arts school brought her to New York where she settled in the East Village and subsequently carved out an international career as a songwriter and interpreter of traditional song through numerous recordings and tours.

Vocal genius. . . the most strikingly original contemporary woman singer working in the Celtic vein is Susan McKeown.
- The Christian Science Monitor

U.S. Upcoming Tours:
March 2005

| Nahawa Doubia Bio | | Merita Halili Bio | | Susan McKeown Bio | | Tour Dates |

For booking, contact:
Alison Loerke
206-525-2425
alison@aliaagency.com
http://www.aliaagency.com

Press Resources:

Photos for download:

NAHAWA DOUMBIA 7.5" x 7.5" 300 dpi BW jpg 492 KB

MERITA HALILI   824 KB jpg

SUSAN MCKEOWN 6.7" x 7.5" jpg 300 dpi jpg (1,821 KB) 150 dpi (919 KB)

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