TransCity

Below is an article as published on the EbonyJet online platform in the US, related to Ebony Magazine, about Dutch-Cape Verdean artist Suzanna Lubrano. This is how “crossover” can look like in the Netherlands.

“Most fans of world music know the music of Cape Verde only through the odd compilation album or the ubiquitous sounds of Cesaria Evora. Those compilations, however, tend toward on style – the somber, hauntingly beautiful strains of accordion and Portugese-flecked guitar mixed with West African rhythms. It is gorgeous background music – memorable mind you – but still best when relegated to a dinner party mix or meditative workout.

Suzanna Lubrano’s approach, however, is very much upfront. Her Cape Verdean zouk is clearly and exuberantly intended for dancing, not dining. And her star is rising with a recent win last week of “Best African Artist of the Disapora” in the prestigious online poll, Museke Online Africa”, not an easy feat when fellow voters from the tiny island of Cape Verde have only so many votes to give.

Collaborations like those with Candy Dulfer, former Prince protégé and popular smooth jazz artist, have gained her attention and some key appearances on the European music television circuit. And though she’s singing in Portugese, the influences here feel less Afro-Brazil than they are reminiscent of Miami-style Latin pop, a dynamic that’s getting Suzanna play from DJ’s at concerts and festivals on this side of the pond. This is not crossover music, at least not her part. To fully enjoy Suzanna’s gifts, you’re gonna have to be the one to crossover to her. We think you should.”