Music Mondays | Ibeyi
Ibeyi
Image | Maya Dagnino, Wikimedia Commons
Twin duo Ibeyi (meaning “twins” in Yoruba, a West African language) makes striking, intense music that is entirely unique, balancing old world and new, ancient and modern. Born into a musical family of Afro-French Cuban heritage, (their father was a member of Buena Vista Social Club), Naomi Diaz and Lisa-Kaindé Diaz make music that reflects Afro-Cuban, South American, and European influences from their family background and upbringing. The band shot to fame after the release of their first album, “Ibeyi” in 2015 and a feature in Beyoncé’s Lemonade film. They toured all over the world and released their second album, “Ash,” two years later, an album with a more electronic-heavy sound but no less raw than their first. Their songs deal with themes of spirituality, grief, love, and healing. The connection the two have when performing is palpable, and their voices blend in a way only siblings could create.
“Mama Says” and “River” are off Ibeyi’s first album and the latter is by far their most popular song. These renditions showcase the sisters’ vocals and connection onstage, while reflecting the cajón and piano composition they use frequently throughout their first album. “Me Voy” is a high-energy tune about leaving the past behind to look towards the future. “Hacia el Amor” is one of their latest releases, featuring Brazilian rapper Emicida in an uplifting tune about power and love.
“Mama Says”
”River”
“Me Voy (I’m Leaving)”
”Hacia el Amor (“Towards Love”), featuring Emicida”
