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After a national tour and a most noticed show at the Printemps de Bourges festival, Davy Sicard is back on Reunion Island’s stage. He will perform a show in Ravine Saint-Leu on Saturday April 28th, 2007. Interview.

Today you find yourself in a quest for identity. Through your songs, you defend what is called
« créolité ». In your opinion, is this a notion that is being threatened ?

I don’t think so. However, « créolité » needs to be expressed in a wider way. We are witnessing a progression. « Créolité » needs to assert itself in a stronger, wider and more accurate way. To defend « créolité » means to express an identity. It also means to feel good in order to be in harmony with others.

In your album, you refer a lot to slavery, fugitive slaves and therefore implicitly to Africa. Moreover, you are said to be a man of wisdom like late Ali Farka Touré, a singer from Mali. Have you ever had the opportunity to go to the dark continent and forge cultural links ?

As a matter of fact, I’ve had the opportunity to take part in a music festival in Zimbabwe. Some of my songs, for instance « Au nom de mes pères » or « Granpèr té si mon zépol », received a positive feedback. African people find their roots and a bit more than that in my songs.

Tradition and modernity seem to be the thread of your album. Two contradictory or complementary notions ?

To me, these notions are complementary. People who have put their mark on Reunion Island culture have innovated and invented something new. One needs to find the right balance between tradition and modernity. Every day teaches you something new. Alain Peters would be a good example. Innovation needs to be included in music. Danyèl Waro’s approach of music is also very elaborate.

According to you, what is the definition of modern « maloya » ?

There is no definition. To me, it’s more something of a state of mind. In modern maloya, tradition isn’t exclusive. Maloya deals with feelings and emotions. It’s intangible.

What about « maloya kabosé » ?

It occured to me like that ! This expression is now part of my language ; it defines my music. It is a type of maloya which has evolved and which is not traditionnal anymore. Evolution is necessary. Many young people haven’t grown up with maloya. The evolution of maloya is a necessity for them as well in a sense that it allows them to link tradition with modernity.

Would you place yourself in the sphere of Tapok, Nathalie Natiembé and Jabotica?

I believe all of us have a specific musical style although all of us defend the spirit of maloya. For instance, Tapok plays what I would call “street maloya” and that’s good. We represent different faces of maloya in our own way.

Today, what is your position on the national and international stage today?

I am lucky enough not to be alone on the national stage. On the other hand, my music has a unique and special character at the level of the international stage. It’s just the beginning; a lot remains to be done. To export one’s music is not an easy task. When one manages do to so, one needs to do one’s utmost to go on one’s way.

What lessons have you drawn from your experience of the Printemps de Bourges festival?

The Printemps de Bourges festival is an opportunity not to be missed but it is no finality. It is a decisive starting point, a challenge. Nowadays, no more contests are organized. This festival is a further opportunity. Reunion Island talent pool is starting to be known, that’s a good thing. Tapok was acclaimed in 2006 and Jabotica this year itself I believe.

What is the image of Reunion Island you wish to convey ?

It is worth noting that I use both French and Creole in my songs. I wish to convey a strong vision of the island, in the image of its mountains. I want to point out that this island is ready to go ahead. The vision of a place where diversity and respect go together is also close to my heart. Everyday life reminds us of the importance of the past and of our roots. I feel that the people from Reunion Island should get more interested in the history of their country.

What is the degree of importance attached to culture in Reunion Island?

In the area of music, many overtures are considered. There is a strong willingness to view local music from a long-term perspective. This willingness is present both in politics and art. Moreover, artists are curious, in the best sense of the word.

You’re going to perform in Reunion Island very soon. What will you share with your audience?

Obviously “Ker Maron”. But I also plan some unexpected songs which will come straight from the heart. It feels good to perform home and I do hope that Reunion Island people will react positively. To conclude, I would like to add that I’m lucky enough to perform abroad. I would like to thank all the people who have been supporting me, especially my friends and family. Reunion Island people need to believe in their music. It’s not as simple as that but one can do it. Everyday one needs to go forward and not to stop there. It’s a matter of honesty and sincerity towards oneself.

 

Find all the news about Davy Sicard on : www.davysicard.com.
Order Davy Sicard's album : Ker maron.