Sophye Soliveau
French singer, harpist, and choir director Sophye Soliveau has emerged as one of the most singular voices in France’s contemporary soul and R&B scene. Born in Clamart to Guadeloupean parents, she grew up surrounded by gwo ka, gospel, R&B, and Caribbean musical traditions, while receiving classical training in harp and choral singing at the conservatory. She gradually developed a unique approach in which the harp becomes a central rhythmic and melodic instrument, blending with her powerful vocals and layered harmonies. Her debut album Initiation, released in March 2024, marked a major turning point in her career. Moving between soul, jazz, gospel, and R&B, the project explores themes of healing, spirituality, love, and emancipation through an intimate and deeply personal sound. Its critical reception helped establish Soliveau as one of the most promising artists of the new French soul scene, leading to performances at major venues and festivals, including the Printemps de Bourges and the Philharmonie de Paris. In 2026, she continued to expand her artistic universe with projects such as Initiation Extended and a special creation inspired by the poetry of Maya Angelou, further demonstrating her ability to connect music, literature, and performance.