Mayra Andrade

Jazz and world music fusion artist from Cape Verde

Biography

Mayra Andrade was born in Cuba to Cape Verdean parents and grew up in Cape Verde before relocating to Switzerland. She is a critically acclaimed singer-songwriter whose music seamlessly blends the rich musical traditions of Cape Verde with contemporary jazz, soul, and world music influences. Her distinctive contralto voice and poetic lyrics have earned her recognition across Europe and beyond. Andrade has released several albums including 'Música da Alma' and 'Òri' which showcase her ability to bridge traditional African music with modern production and arrangement. Her work celebrates Cape Verdean culture and the African diaspora, often drawing on themes of identity, displacement, and belonging. She has performed at major international festivals and collaborated with renowned musicians across genres. Andrade's artistic contributions have helped bring Cape Verdean music to a global audience and established her as an important voice in contemporary world music.

The Name Mayra

Mayra is a name with Latin American and African roots, and Mayra Andrade represents the global dimension of this name, connecting it to Afro-Caribbean and African diaspora cultural expression.

Quick Facts

Mayra

Sanskrit origin

“Of uncertain but likely Persian or Sanskrit origins, Mayra may be connected to 'maia' (illusion in Sanskrit) or Persian royal traditions. The name has an exotic, graceful quality with cross-cultural appeal, sounding familiar enough to be accessible yet distinctive enough to stand out.”