Behind the music – Celaviedmai – Raidió Teilifís Éireann

Irish hip hop act Celaviedmai has released her new single Cool Ya Temper and performs on the Sunday night at October Nights Festival in Ballina on 29 October. We asked her the BIG questions . . .

Celaviedmai, real name, Maimouna Salif was born and raised in Galway. Her music blends genres within urban contemporary music and often combines English, French and Irish in her lyrics – paying homage to her Ivory Coast roots.

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She released her debut EP, Both Sides of the Story, in 2022 and was an Other Voices featured artist.

In 2023, she played three London shows; opened for Kelis in Dublin, was announced as a Breakthrough 2023 artist with Gay Times magazine and performed at Longitude, Body & Soul and Electric Picnic.

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October Nights festival is a two-night affair in Ballina Arts Centre on 28 to 29 October, which also singer and multi-instrumentalist Peter Broderick; spit-fire rapper Celavidmai; bilingual singer Siomha; harpist Alannah Thornburgh; prolific indie crooner Laurie Shaw and local hardcore duo YOP.

Tell us three things about yourself . . .

I’m a Galway girl, born and raised! My parents are from the Ivory Coast, which is why I pepper my music with French and Gaeilge. I’m going on my first ever Irish headline tour this winter (Ballina, Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Galway). I’m so excited, I have so much new music and energy to bring with me and the band. I’m vegan but I’m also allergic to (and hate) lots of foods… so I’m always looking for great food recommendations when I visit new places.

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How would you describe your music?

I would describe my music as versatile, vibrant and high energy. The music that I released earlier in my career came from a much younger version of myself, very much RnB and then also straight up rap. My upcoming EP is where I’ve always wanted to go with my sound. It’s rap but over electronic, alternative beats and inspired by the UK scene with an Afro-infused twist.

Who are your musical inspirations?

I take influence from many artists, whether it be how they perform, beats, flow or wordplay. I actually reference other songs or bars very regularly in my music – it’s one of my favourite aspects of hip-hop. From Kendrick Lamar to Nicki Minaj, I appreciate the greats and they make their way into my creative process when writing. In terms of musical style, I take inspiration lately from Doechii, Kaytranada, J Hus and Bree Runway.

What was the first gig you ever went to?

I’m not sure which was the first I ever attended… but my first major gig was opening up for Lil Wayne in the O2 (now 3Arena Dublin). It was an amazing experience and the biggest crowd I have since performed to.

What was the first record you ever bought?

One of the first records I ever bought was by Britney Spears, I don’t know what it was but she was just everywhere when I was a kid. I’m so grateful for digital music these days because I’m able to explore a lot more from around the world, versus what I had access to when I was a kid.

What’s your favourite song right now?

Music is popping off right now, there’s so many artists releasing good tunes. My favourite song right now from anyone is Water by South African artist Tyla. It’s undeniably addictive. Favourite song from an Irish artist… Cool Ya Temper by me! It was produced by Ben Bix (Sim Simma) and it’s a gateway into this new era of music I’m about to release.

Favourite lyric of all time?

That’s hard because favourite artists and songs change all the time for me. But any time I hear Moment 4 Life by Nicki Minaj & Drake, I immediately go into character. The song is about rising to the top, despite doubters and push backs. Something I can relate to and explore in my own writing. It’s such a timeless rap song, the whole thing is so good but the opening is iconic: “I fly with the stars in the skies, I am no longer trying to survive, I believe that life is a prize, But to live doesn’t mean you’re alive.”

If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?

212 by Azealia Banks. She’s controversial but I don’t care. She did things in music that no one was doing at the time and 212 will forever be a banger, everyone loves that track!

Where can people find your music/more information?

Best way to follow along with music and updates would be my Instagram @celaviedmai and tickets for all my upcoming shows are on my website.

Alan Corr