The Franco-Malian singer Aya Nakamura, the most listened-to French-speaking artist in the world, could perform at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Olympics on July 26th in Paris. This would be a wise choice for multiple reasons.
Over the past few years, the 28-year-old Franco-Malian singer Aya Nakamura has become a national (and global) phenomenon. She is a star who rivals American pop and R’n’B stars. Since her first album, “Journal intime,” in 2017, which was certified platinum, Aya Coco Danioko (her real name) has captivated mainstream audiences as well as more niche circles, along with the fashion and beauty world (LancĂ´me, Mac, Balenciaga, Jacquemus). During Paris Fashion Week 2024, which ends on March 5th, she was present at all the major fashion shows (Balmain, Schiaparelli, Alexander McQueen).
The news of the prestigious new adventure for the music star? According to L’Express, Aya Nakamura could perform at the opening ceremony of the Olympics on July 26, 2024, in Paris, at the TrocadĂ©ro Gardens. This event will be free and open to the public. She even met with President Emmanuel Macron, who suggested she sing a song by Edith Piaf, an artist Aya Nakamura admires. Following the announcement by L’Express of this possibility, there was an influx of sexist and racist comments reflecting misogynoir (misogyny towards black women) on social media.
Despite the criticisms from some internet users and editorialists (often associated with the far right) about her perceived vulgarity and incomprehensible lyrics, which they believe do not showcase the richness of the French language, Aya Nakamura’s innovative use of language is reminiscent of what pop artists have always done, such as the Beatles who created words like “Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da.”
The choice of Aya Nakamura to perform at this ceremony is a brilliant one, not only to emphasize France’s rich diversity but also for other reasons. In 2018, Aya Nakamura’s song “Djadja” reached the top of the charts in France and the Netherlands, matching a record previously held only by Edith Piaf in 1960. Like the French singer with a tragic life, Aya Nakamura is a star who appeals to international audiences, with songs that transcend language barriers.
Another reason why Aya Nakamura would be perfect for the 2024 Olympics? Her intense stage presence. In February 2023, BeyoncĂ© announced her world tour with two dates in France, causing a dilemma for fans. One of her dates coincided with a concert by Aya Nakamura in Paris. Social media erupted with reactions to this clash of titans, showcasing the popularity of both artists in the pop-R’n’B-hip-hop genre. Aya Nakamura’s live performances are captivating and draw enthusiastic audiences, making her a fitting choice for a prominent event like the 2024 Olympics opening ceremony.
Given her success and appeal across different audiences, Aya Nakamura has established herself as a music icon and a cultural phenomenon. Her potential performance at the 2024 Olympics opening ceremony, which will be closely watched worldwide, has the potential to unite people and showcase the diversity and vibrancy of French culture..
