Nawal originally comes from the Comoros Islands, known as the “Islands of the Moon,” which are located in the Indian Ocean off the eastern of Africa.
Raised among a large family, many who were musicians, Nawal’s youth was filled with the sounds of afro-jazz, reggae, and rhythm and blues guitars. While still young, Nawal moved away from the islands and grew into an adult in her new home in the southern region of France.
In 1985, Nawal returned to the Comoros Islands rediscovering her cultural legacy, and decided to bring it to light. She explored deeper into her mixed cultural roots, and created a new sound which reflects the diverse character of life in her native islands. Indian, Arabic, and Persian music meets Bantu polyphonies mixed with Sufi chanting and the distinct rhythms of the Indian Ocean.
Known as “The Voice of Comoros,” Nawal is also the first Comorian woman singer/songwriter to give public performances. As a Muslim-born African woman, often breaking socio-religious barriers, Nawal has faced many obstacles throughout her career. Despite these challenges, Nawal stays strong in her message and philosophy. Also as a descendant of the grand Sufi marabout of Comores, El-Maarouf (1852-1904), Nawal invariably stays with the light of Islam.
In her music, Nawal gives lessons in global values based on love, respect, and peace. She sings in favor of all humans, for education and for union. Nawal has been performing her own music professionally for over 20 years, and has also participated in numerous collaborations with other groups including Donna Africa, Malgache Connexion and Touloulou.
As a self-produced artist, Nawal is just beginning to gain international attention with her powerful voice and socially progressive commentary. Her first full-length album, Kweli, was released in 2001.
Discography
Kweli (2001)
Aman (2007)
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.
