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Syssi Mananga – Congo

Raised between two different continents by a Belgian father and Congolese mother, Syssi’s music reflects a creative cultural fusion of her African roots with hints of jazz, salsa, ramba and reggae.

Making some of her first appearances on stage in jazz clubs and piano bars in Bologna, Italy and Washington DC, USA Syssi is no stranger to the international music circuit. Back in Congo in 2011 Syssi devoted herself to composing, releasing her first album “Retour aux Sources.” On this album, you will hear songs in Lingala, French, English and Spanish. Syssi songs reflect her pride for her origins, the absurdity of war through the eyes of a child soldier, the courage to stand for freedom, the need for respect for the environment, as well as love and forgiveness.

Syssi is a strong believer in the therapeutic powers of music, founding Artistes en Herbe (Budding Artists) Project, which provides music classes to vulnerable kids in the Congo.