Latvian Maestro Raimonds Pauls’ melodies from different periods have been collected in a project, in which the texts in English were written for them by the internationally recognized American songwriter Gordon Pogoda. They were sung by the owner of a powerful voice, Shayna Steele, who is also a songwriter herself, as well as an actress of New York’s Broadway theaters and TV series.
The combination of Steele’s powerful R’n’B and jazzy vocal sound with the Latvian Maestro’s wonderful melodies is something we can all look forward to with great impatience on the 25th anniversary of the Rīgas Ritmi festival.
"Steele’s range, versatility and varied influences – from jazz to gospel, soul and folk – encapsulates all of the possibility brimming from the American musical canon according to the highs and lows of her powerhouse vocal." – music portal Okayplayer
SHAYNA STEELE voice
Kremerata Baltica
Latvian Radio Bigband
Momi Maiga is a highly gifted Senegalese musician, composer and singer whose passion and talent go beyond the usual boundaries. With a kora in his hands and a heart full of stories, Momi creates melodies that combine the rich tapestry of his West African heritage with the soulful vibes of jazz, flamenco and classical music.
At just 27 years old, he has captivated audiences around the world, winning the Emerging Talent 2024 award for best new artist at the prestigious Alícia Awards of the Catalan Academy of Music. In recent years musician lives in Spain and demonstrates his ability to combine tradition and innovation, creating a powerful musical journey that can touch every soul. Momi’s music is a heartfelt dialogue between cultures, a call for peace and the celebration of life.
“Solos, unison passages and clapping patterns once agaig awoke flamenco. Momi continues to build the harmonious bridge between Africa and Europe. His kora solos gain monumentum and complexity and develop an almost magical intensity.” – music critic Norbert Krampf
MOMI MAIGA kora, vocal
ALEIX TOBIAS drums, percussion
CARLOS MONTFORT violin
MARÇAL AYATS cello