Assol Garcia is a singer from Cabo Verde, an archipelago nation off the coast of West Africa that is home to rich Afro-Portuguese music traditions. She was born in 1989 on the island of Fogo, raised in the shadows of the island’s frequently erupting active volcano. Now based in Boston, Garcia draws on Cabo Verdean styles such as morna and coladeira, genres that were made famous around the world through the work of the late Cesária Evora. Garcia’s debut album, Alma di Minino (Soul of a Child), released in November 2015, garnered critical acclaim and multiple nominations at the 2017 Cabo Verde Music Awards, winning her the title of "Best New Artist." In 2023, Garcia released her latest album, Ecos de Mim (Echoes of Myself), further showcasing her soulful voice and dedication to promoting Cabo Verdean music worldwide.
Featured Songs:
Julio Correira wrote the song “Txuska,” which originally appeared on Assol Garcia’s album Ecos de Mim. The song’s chord progression, lilting rhythm and melancholy melody is reminiscent of the famous Cape Verdean song “Sodade. Featured on African Celebration, “Txuska” tells the story of a young woman from the countryside who comes into the city seeking a better life only to be taunted by local men.“He pretends to know me, but he doesn’t understand / I’m just passing through this world / And I have more grandeur than a princess.”
The Global Celebration song “Fijon Rafugado” (Refugee Bean), relates a dream about a talking bean. “Yesterday, I dreamt / My neighbor came to tell me about a bean that speaks / Oh, so tasty and flavorful / That refugee bean in my pot.”
On the Global Party upbeat coladeira track, “Tiki Taki,” Garcia sings “You’re the beat that’s in my heart / I feel you, tiki taki, in my heart / Yours is a love that pulses in my chest / Come closer, live it with me / It’s a love like coffee / It has no bitterness / Your taste is like honey.”
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