Artist from Rodrigues in Seychelles to promote her art |08 September 2016

Culture in Rodrigues is an ode to the beauty of encounters. It keeps recalling the influences that marked the adventure of human settlement on the island. The “traditional” music results from the juxtaposition of musical forms into a medley of African and European influences, resting on two pillars. 

One fine day, the sega and the accordion united to the delight of dancers and musicians. Bands of young musicians also offer a wide range of contemporary musical styles – hip hop, ragga, reggae, RnB, etc. Now and then, these styles mix with the rhythms of the accordion, combining tradition with current trends.

Volvert Marie-Stéphanie, also known as ‘Sista Rosy’, is an artist from Rodrigues who is currently in Seychelles to promote her love for the art here.

She started her career at the age of 16 in Rodrigues by performing typical local Creole music from her island.

“Since I started my career, I have had much encouragement to promote my art. I had to change my style of music to make way for sega, zouk, among others,” she said.

‘Sista Rosy’ has managed to gather a lot of knowledge since she deputed as a singer, and wanted to share her art with Seychellois artists.

“I came to Seychelles to explore the Creole art, and also to promote my art. I have realised that Seychelles and Rodrigues have different styles of music. I would like to incorporate the Seychelles music with that of Rodrigues and create that bond. I really appreciate Seychelles music,” she said.

During her stay in Seychelles she has met other local artists such as Joenise Juliette, Marie Clarisse. She also is a theatrical actor, and a slammer.

“Last week I got the opportunity to perform at Chez Batista, where I performed in front of the public. It is my second time in Seychelles; I came in 2013 for the Festival Kreol; it was a really nice experience,” she said.

‘Sista Rosy’ has also got her first album – Premier Pas – which is currently being sold in Seychelles for R125.

Next year she wants to release another album but this time in Seychelles, and also make video clips of her first album in December.

“Seychellois artists have got so much talent; they need to keep it up. They have to promote their music in Rodrigues by sending their album, maybe we can also have some exchanges. Let’s not wait for Festival Kreol to be able to have that experience and share our music. Many people in Rodrigues love Seychelles’ music,” she said.

‘Sista Rosy’ also took the opportunity to thank Joenise Juliette, Helda Marie and Marie Clarisse family for everything they did for her during her stay in Seychelles.

U.J.