By: Natasha Archary
US born jazz singer and songwriter Somi made history when she was announced as one of the 2021 Grammy nominees.
With her Rwandan-Ugandan roots a strong influence in her journey, “Holy Room”, her latest offering made her the first African woman to be nominated in any of the jazz categories and the first African artist to be nominated for a jazz vocal performance. Her nomination is in the Best Jazz Vocal Album category.
Proud moment
Born Laura Kabasomi Kakoma, the Grammy nod gave her a great sense of accomplishment, making her feel “seen” by her colleagues. She is true to her African heritage and it plays a huge factor in shaping and informing her identity. She was quoted as saying the nomination gives her acknowledgement as a black woman, and she uses the word black because she has spent a large part of her life between the USA and Africa.
The 63rd Grammy Awards takes place on the 31 January 2021. They will recognize the best recordings, compositions, and artists for the eligibility year running from September 1, 2019, to August 31, 2020.
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