Today is International Women’s Day, an annual celebration of the cultural, political and socioeconomic achievements of women. It’s also a day to reflect on the progress made, and still needed, in achieving gender equality. We’re commemorating the day with a three-part mix series dedicated to late musical trailblazers.
Elza Soares, the legendary samba singer who enjoyed an illustrious, six-decade-spanning career, passed away on 20 January at her home in Rio de Janeiro. Soares was an icon both in her native Brazil and beyond. From her raspy singing style to the 30-plus albums she released over the years via her tireless advocacy of women’s rights and racial justice, Soares dedicated her life to breaking new ground and shaping the future.
London-based singer-songwriter Lynda Dawn is among the plethora of artists who look upon Soares as an inspirational figure. Much like the late icon, Dawn’s own work is a potent fusion of styles and musical expressions, with the artist infusing her releases with notes of R&B, gospel and slow-burning grooves, as well as funk, soul and Brazilian jazz.
“The legendary Elza Soares is one of my all-time favourite singers,” says Dawn. “She embodied female empowerment through her art and her advocacy, and this mix is a celebration of her life and legacy. May she rest in power.”
International Women’s Day: Elza Soares by Lynda Dawn
International Women’s Day: Elza Soares by Lynda Dawn
Today is International Women’s Day, an annual celebration of the cultural, political and socioeconomic achievements of women. It’s also a day to reflect on the progress made, and still needed, in achieving gender equality. We’re commemorating the day with a three-part mix series dedicated to late musical trailblazers.
Elza Soares, the legendary samba singer who enjoyed an illustrious, six-decade-spanning career, passed away on 20 January at her home in Rio de Janeiro. Soares was an icon both in her native Brazil and beyond. From her raspy singing style to the 30-plus albums she released over the years via her tireless advocacy of women’s rights and racial justice, Soares dedicated her life to breaking new ground and shaping the future.
London-based singer-songwriter Lynda Dawn is among the plethora of artists who look upon Soares as an inspirational figure. Much like the late icon, Dawn’s own work is a potent fusion of styles and musical expressions, with the artist infusing her releases with notes of R&B, gospel and slow-burning grooves, as well as funk, soul and Brazilian jazz.
“The legendary Elza Soares is one of my all-time favourite singers,” says Dawn. “She embodied female empowerment through her art and her advocacy, and this mix is a celebration of her life and legacy. May she rest in power.”
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