Anyone who witnessed Festival Nuits d’Afrique’s closing concert in the Quartier des spectacles’ Parterre in July of 2023 will surely remember it! A dazzling explosion of lively rhythms, led by the out-and-out performer, singer and dancer of resplendent style – Meiway! Hailing from the Grand-Bassam region, this Ivorian artist with a wild imagination never ceases to amaze. From the moment he begins the “handkerchief dance,” a form of collective expression stemming from his N’zima cultural roots, he makes everyone feel like a VIP guest.
An antidote to the blues, Meiway is fuelled by a delicious elixir made up of 200% joie de vivre and liberty! A true legend, the artist pioneered his own musical style dubbed “Zoblazo” and, accompanied by his Zo Gang, is like a firecracker on stage. Since the ’90s, he has generated hit after hit, album after album, with no signs of slowing down. Always one to extol the beauty of women, he makes no secret of his fondness for “Miss Lolo,” and there’s a good bet that he’ll be inviting ladies to join him on stage!
In addition to his irresistible charm and sinuous moves, this artist, whose talent earned him the title of “Best Singer of Ivory Coast,” is able to evoke the richness of that society through his art. He has opened the door to his African homeland, which he praises and indeed glorifies. Meiway believes wholeheartedly in his art, and it shows. No audience can resist him. His rosary is made up of enduring hits, including faves like “Rouler moutou” or “Voilà string” and “Edja.” Each of his YouTube videos garner millions of views, with a fan base that’s always eager for more. He’s a genuine star, both here and around the globe. Surrounded by djembe and brass band rhythms , Meiway is ever the indomitable orchestra man. At the end of 2024, his single “Badou’ko” (the meal) became all the rage with its rap vibe, celebrating Ivorian delights “Gbofloto” (Ivorian donuts) and “Kpolo” sauce (cow skin in tomato sauce).
Like the pan-African message conveyed in his 2019 album Légende, his philosophy continually evolves through cultural openness, extending out to sub-regional countries like Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of Congo but also further afield, to such places as France or Haiti. On “planet music,” no territory or influence can resist him. So, reserve a spot in your summer calendar, and make sure you have your best shirt or shiniest dress ready for this unique occasion to experience Meiway live!