Music for the Masses presents "Cuba Meets Africa II"
with African Salsa Legend from Benin
LAURENT HOUNSAVI
First Show Ever in the U.S.!!!
Wednesday, March 10th
Doors open 7:30pm * Showtime 8:30pm
performing with International Dance Band
CHARANGA SOLEIL
plus DJ AL ANGELORO
Host of Radio Soleil's "NY International"
Tickets $15, avail. in advance or at the door
S.O.B.'s
204 Varick St. (at Houston St.)
NYC 10014
Box office, info & reservations: 212.243.4940 * www.sobs.com
PURCHASE ONLINE HERE
LAURENT HOUNSAVI was born in the West African nation of Benin—homeland of the Yoruba,
Dahomey (Fon) and Goun, among others, whose rhythms were transplanted during slavery to
the European colonies such as Cuba, Haiti and Brazil.
Hounsavi began his singing career in Cotonou, Benin at the age of 7. In 1989, at age 15,
he was awarded the Red Cross Prize and earned the title “Best Young Talent” in his home country.
In 1990 he arrived in Paris, performing in the Paris Underground and in bars
and cafés while completing his studies. His first CD, a four-song self-produced EP, was released
in 2000, launching his professional career. His performance that year at Benin's famous
"Stade de l'Amitié” drew a crowd of nearly 50,000.
Hounsavi's debut album, “Paris-Cubano,” has continued to receive critical acclaim since its
release in 2004. With lyrics in several Beninese languages (Fon, Yoruba, Goun), as well as
Spanish and French, his songs have been featured in international music festivals,
radio programs and recordings, such as Putumayo's “World Party” compilation (2007).
Since then his songs have been marketed in more than 100 countries throughout Europe,
the US, Africa and Asia.
Within only a few years, Laurent Hounsavi has become one of the most sought-after African Salsa
vocalists around the world. He has also had the opportunity to work and share the stage with
many world-renowned artists and legends of African, Afro-Cuban and Salsa music.
Don't miss this first-time opportunity to see the legendary
Laurent Hounsavi of Benin!
