The fusion of African music and contemporary jazz previews her forthcoming “Fierce” album.
R&B/Jazz harpist Mariea Antoinette was changed forever during a recent trip to Africa. Inspired by the continent’s elevated energy, rooted wisdom, and historic pain, she was deeply moved by the beauty of the people and children, the vibrant rhythms of the cities, the joy of the markets, the freshness of the food, and the grace of the Indigenous communities. What Antoinette experienced on that visit was far richer and more powerful than what she had ever seen previously about Africa. Upon her return, she connected with her producer and songwriter Allan Phillips to create “Afrika,” her chart-topping single that is being considered for a GRAMMY® nomination for Best Global Music Performance. “Afrika” comes from Antoinette’s fourth album, “Fierce,” which will be released next year.
Known for crafting original songs using a unique alchemy of funk, soul, hip-hop, and contemporary jazz as well as for reimagining classic R&B hits, “Afrika” is a new composition and a fresh track that incorporates African sounds, nuances, and percussive rhythms. The lead voice is Antoinette’s celestial yet soulful harp that leads the global expedition through the majestic African plains. Fingering the notes that dance joyfully, she finds an astute balance between delicate and robust, emotional and proud. “Afrika” is a celebration, a homecoming, and a reunion. Adding to the sacred occasion is a vocal chorus that simply singings the word “Afrika.”
“This song is my world anthem—an ode to the birthplace of humanity and a reminder that we are forever connected. As I reflected on the shared struggles of people of African descent, from the blood diamonds of Sierra Leone and the hardships in Congo, to the enduring resilience of African Americans, Afro-South Americans, and even the mistreatment of Aborigines in Australia, my producer and I knew we needed to create a song that embodied connection. ‘Afrika’ carries the heartbeat of humanity itself: its creativity, its intellectual power, its energy, and even the untamed beauty of its wildlife. By honoring and healing Africa, we also honor and heal ourselves,” said Antoinette about the single that was accompanied by a video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f-EN_iMhzTc&list=RDf-EN_iMhzTc&start_radio=1).
Along with Phillips who played keyboards and percussion and sang on “Afrika,” Antoinette is joined on the track by drummer Tiki Pasillas, bassist Nathan Brown, guitarist Evan Marks, trumpeter Derek Cannon, tenor saxophonist John Rekevics, trombonist Jordan Morita, the AP All Stars Strings ensemble, and vocalist Natalya Phillips.
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“A GRAMMY® nomination would be a profound honor. I would be excited to know that I was able to bring the harp, an incredibly unique and often overlooked instrument, to the world stage as a lead voice in contemporary music. Through ‘Afrika,’ I feel I’ve accomplished what I set out to do: connect the harp with Africa itself. This piece was inspired by the rhythms, creativity, and spirit of the people, as well as the majesty of the indigenous wildlife. For me, the nomination would symbolize that this vision, uniting tradition, innovation, and cultural storytelling, truly resonated with the world,” said the San Diego-based Antoinette.
Antoinette is a visionary and groundbreaking artist who brazenly plies her classical roots to jazz and R&B. Her recordings consistently hit the Billboard charts, and her single “Overture” held the No. 1 spot for a remarkable thirteen weeks. A dynamic and captivating performer, Antoinette has played such prestigious venues as Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Hollywood Bowl as well as a slew of major jazz festivals. She performed alongside Ne-Yo at the BET Awards and has entertained First Lady Michelle Obama.
For more information, please visit https://marieaantoinette.com.
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