Louis-Jean & The Irie Rainbow

Louis-Jean,

Born in Kaolack but raised in the suburb of Guediawaye, 20 km from the city center of Dakar,
Louis-Jean developed a passion for reggae music at an early age and was captivated
by the soul and vibes of reggae.
He started writing lyrics at the age of 15 years when he participated in a UNICEF-contest and wrote lyrics for a song for Youssou N'Dour on children's rights.
He won second prize, which motivated and encouraged him to continue with writing lyrics and composing music.
After spending two years at the School of Music of Dakar, Louis-Jean began his musical carrier with the band Amandla in 1990.
His love for reggae sent him on a journey to explore South-Africa in September 1997.
During his five years stay, he spent most of his time learning about South-African music and had the opportunity to work with some well-known South-African musicians, like:
Tutukani Cele, Jimi Indi (Music Ye Afrika), El Hadj Diop, Jacob and Jambo (Tidal Waves), Joel Joseph, Ndumiso Nyovane and Mc Carthy Moletwa.
Some of these musicians were in the backing band of Lucky Dube called "Slave".
They eventually separated and became the band "Free at last".
In his last days in Johannesburg before he left for Germany, Louis-Jean produced
an album which he called "Dakar- Johannesburg- Berlin".
The production of the album reflects the experiences of his journey.
He was delighted to discover that reggae is popular in Europe - "Babylon" and to
celebrate this, he has produced a single called "Reggae is dancing in Babylon"
featuring Daveman from the band "Trikolo".
During his first months in Germany he performed with international musicians
like Juanes, an Columbian artist performing pop music at the I.C.C Berlin, Max`Adioa, Snipe, Sister Fa. and he also performed several times with Zoe.
The most prestigious musical event he has taken part in Germany was a public
appearance with Zoe, for a TV- Show "Ein Jahr nach der Flut", recorded live
in Dresden with German channel m.d.r. VIVA.