© LIFE BY ROLYVAN KOTTO
This Friday, February 24, the ballroom of the Sofitel Abidjan Hotel Ivoire received select guests who came to take part in the official launch of the Jayli Awards, a new ceremony to honor players in the musical sphere in Côte d’Ivoire and Africa.
The Jayli Awards, a name derived from Djeli (which in Malinké means griot) reward the best African cultural actors. Best Choreographer, Best Instrumentalist, Best Traditional Artist/Group, Best Central African Artist/Group, Song of the Year… A total of 24 trophies including a Tribute trophy will be awarded at the Jayli Awards.
Unlike the Awards that already exist in Côte d’Ivoire, the Jayli Awards allow artists to apply for nomination. Relatives and fans can also do it for an artist who must also meet rigorous selection criteria. For example, artists who have never produced an EP or album cannot be nominated in certain categories such as Best Artist/Group of the Year. Those who have produced at least 3 singles in their career can apply for Best Urban Artist. Those who are on their very first single will be able to compete in the Best Newcomer categories. For the Song of the Year and Best Collaboration categories, nominations are open to everyone.
