Nordlys Global Voices Series: Elida Almeida

Born on the island of Santiago in Cape Verde, Elida Almeida began her musical journey singing in church, developing a voice that’s as rich in emotion as it is in strength. At just 22, she burst onto the international scene by winning the Prix Découvertes RFI in 2015 and has since graced major world music stages across Europe, Africa, and North America. This past March, Elida performed an NPR Tiny Desk Concert as part of their x globalFEST.   

Elida’s debut album introduced the world to her vibrant sound and earned massive acclaim, with the standout single "Nta Konsigui" amassing over 2.7 million views on YouTube. Her second album, Kebrada—named after the village where she grew up—dives deeper into her roots, blending traditional Cabo Verdean rhythms like batuque, funaná, coladera, and tabanka with a burst of Latin flair.

With a warm, smooth voice and a fiery stage presence, Elida delivers a sound that’s joyful and danceable, yet deeply thoughtful. Her music celebrates identity, resilience, and community, offering ballads that are both nostalgic and socially resonant, all wrapped in irresistible grooves.

SAMPLE SONG

Don’t miss this powerful evening of global music at Caffè Lena—an intimate setting for one of Africa’s most exciting contemporary voices.

Made possible by The Nordlys Foundation.

Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Enjoy one week of access with your live stream ticket.

Global

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