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Boy Gé Mendès

Boy Gé Mendès, born Gérard Mendes, is a distinguished musician who carries the vibrant beats and soulful melodies of the Cape Verde Islands to the global music scene. Born in Dakar, Senegal in 1952 to Cape Verdean parents, Boy Gé moved to France with his family when he was just six. It was in France he later emerged as a key figure within the music landscape, especially renowned for his part in co-founding the iconic band 'Os Tubarões,' which was instrumental in popularizing Cape Verdean music during the 1970s and '80s.

Embarking on a successful solo career, Boy Gé Mendès delved into exploring the diverse sonic textures of his heritage, blending traditional Cape Verdean rhythms, such as the morna and coladeira, with a wide array of global influences. His rich discography is marked by a joyful and elegant fusion of Creole poetry and Afro-pop sensibilities. Boy Gé's music often reflects his deep affinity for subjects like nostalgia for his homeland and the shared human experience. With albums like "Lagoa" and tracks like "Cumba Ietu," his compositions invite listeners to explore the syncretism of Cape Verdean music and the broader African diaspora. Through a series of collaborations, remixes, and reinterpretations, such as "Cumba Ietu (Revisited By Saint Germain) Extended version," Mendes continues to evolve his sound, maintaining his presence in the Afro-Lusophone music landscape. His contributions to the world of music have made him an enduring and beloved figure in the Creole-speaking world and among world music aficionados globally.

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