The Pace Report: Malikas Musical Journey The Malika Zarra Interview

Malika Zarra s world music background has allowed her to make a splash here in the states. She mixes her Moroccan, French, and American musical influences on her debut disc On The Ebony But her latest Motema Records release Berber Taxi further expands Malika s musical pallet by writing some of the most intense and melodic music of her career. The Moroccan born and French raised musician has allowed all of her musical experiences culminate on both her discs as well as in her live performances. It was her first visit in the states during late 1990 s where she encountered an instructor who encouraged her to incorporate native rhythms from her country in her music. Upon moving to New York in 2004, Malika has performed or recorded with musicians like Gino Sitson, Somi, Will Calhoun, Lonnie Plaxico, and Kenny Davis to name a few. But she still focusing on her music and developing her style. She performs her music in Arabic, French, Berber, and English. Whil