From Rhode Island, U.S., discover another Upscale Records'
production: "Hoje é bô noite" or rather "Tonight Is Your Night."
The star is Denis Graça whose voice and melodies are
undoubtedly some of the best within Zouk and Cabo Love's
spheres. No wonder why this U.S.-based artist has been rocking
the world in the last couple of months. We caught up with Denis
Graça on a chat-room.
Afrowave: Denis, congratulations on the release of your second solo album, "Hoje é bô noite." It took almost 5 years to produce and release this album. How do you feel about it?
Denis: It's something that took this long because of my shows around the world. I feel good about my new album, but I think that people will need time to understand it.
Afrowave: What does "Hoje é bô noite" represent for you and for your and musical style?
Denis: It's still my style; just an updated version of it--something new!
Afrowave: If you were to characterize "Hoje é bô noite," what would you say? Is it Zouk, R&B Zouk, Coladeira or all of the above?
Denis: It's zouk, cabolove whatever you feel it is. I let my fans decide what they wanna call it (smile).
Afrowave: Going back to 2001...your first solo album "Sonhos" was a "golden" album as far as sale was concerned. Are you expecting the same outcome?
Denis: To get that kind of award and recognition for ones work is always welcomed, but let's see where "Hoje é bô noite" will go.
Afrowave: Reading your site on myspace.com, I've come to understand that you are extremely busy promoting this album. How is that going?
Denis: Yes I have a lot of shows worldwide and I have to say it's going very well. People are starting to enjoy the new songs.
Afrowave: Now...you're a capeverdean, but you grew up in the Netherlands along with many other Diaspora musicians. In your opinion what are the factors that have influenced your music the most?
Denis: It's definitely R&B, Soul and don't forget "nôs música."
Afrowave: Your former Band "Splash" got to share some of the credits for your talent...agreed?
Denis: Splash did help me a lot in the beginning of my career and I'm very thankful for that.
Afrowave: You've been residing in the U.S. for awhile now. How is like making our style of music in the U.S.?
Denis: People seem to like my music a lot in the USA. They're giving me more "power" now than before (smile).
Afrowave: What is next for you?
Denis: I just came from Cape Verde where I did 14 shows. I've done 12 shows here in the USA and now I am heading to Europe for more shows.
Afrowave: Denis, good luck once again and thanks for your time.
Denis: Thank you guys for this interview.
