MySpace.com - KUBOLOR - Africa, GH - Other

Yes it’s true, he wears a skirt; it’s actually a mud cloth wrap. Yes, yes, he goes everywhere barefoot and rumors of no underwear might very well be true, but would you expect anything less radical from a Kubolor? And for those who are not hip to this word; a Kubolor pronounced “coo-bor-law” is a rascal or truant; one who does not appear to be under parental control or guidance, always on some adventure like Kofi Babone or Peter Pan.

Wanlov the Kubolor was born in Ploiesti, Romania, and grew up in Accra, Ghana. Raised in a home where both parents are avid collectors of world music and other forms of eclectic art, it is no wonder the Kubolor has a unique perspective on life; A worldview evident in his insightful consciousness, and empathetic presentation of the human condition.

Hailed as one of the most refreshing and original artists of his time, this well-deserved distinction is largely due to his decision to buck the current trend of his generation, and live out his African roots. Kubolor’s love and respect for the African nature is felt not only in his music, which is delivered in his distinctive Ghanaian accent, but also in his hallmark sense of style, African in its core. This choice to be uniquely African, has result in him being embraced proudly by a new generation of Africans and other fans the world over for his authenticity and flair. For his large African fan base, the Kubolor represents them not only sonically, but also culturally and visually, a combination held together by his own special and highly appealing brand of consciousness.

Kubolor, true to his support of things African, is affiliated with the Ghanaian-based production house Pidgen Music. Out of his musical and personal experiences, he has succeeded in creating a space to share his art comfortably. In refusing to modify his versatile style to fit the mould of pre-existing genres, Kubolor hopes to inspire others to create a personal evolutionary path for positive change.

His widely acclaimed versatility is heard on his debut album “Green Card”, released in late 2007 on his return to Ghana after a 7-year stay in the USA. Already being referred to as a classic in less than a year since its release, this enigmatic man, has gone on to capture the hearts and minds of the people of Ghana. On any given day in Accra, the capital city, it is likely that you might see the barefooted, mud skirt clad Kubolor, playing his 2 koshkas (pendulum shakers) or his atenteben (bamboo flute) as his fans, both young and old, sing the words to one of his more popular songs “Kokonsa” or hail him out with shouts of “Kubolor” "Kubolor"! Undoubtedly, Wanlov The Kubolor is happiest amongst the people he says inspire him to be the truest version of himself.

Though at home with his fans, he is also no stranger to the company of internationally acclaimed musicians. Wanlov the Kubolor has had the honor of collaborating with Gyedu-Blay Ambolley, Ghana's Rap pioneer / Highlife legend, Reggie Rockstone, the Godfather of Hiplife, amongst other well respected artists worldwide. His flair for the extraordinary has netted him wide acclaim and in this well-earned popularity, Kubolor was recently chosen as one of 5 artists to represent Africa as a lyricist/songwriter in the “Routes to Roots” project. A collaborative initiative conceived by Bigga Fish, a UK-based organization that engages young people through creative mediums, Routes to Roots is a musical project with 10 Artists carefully selected from Africa and the UK to record an album that represents all sides of the cultural spectrum.

No doubt, Wanlov's music is stimulating to hear, but it has been said that the Kubolor’s special brand of music is best experienced in a live show. True to this statement are the phrases used by Kubolor concert goers in universities, theatres and clubs throughout the United States, the U.K, and West Africa. “Incredibly captivating” and “consciousness raising” are likely to be heard as someone describe their experience at his show. His eclectic musical style has blurred the lines of creativity and mass appeal and testament to this is the worldwide radio play he currently enjoys. Indeed, interviews on college radio stations, national news media and the BBC World Service show that Kubolor's music crosses all boundaries, real or imagined.

According to Wanlov, his ability to appeal to all people and to relate to the broad spectrum of the human experience is a result of growing up between 2 worlds. He speaks candidly of his Ghanaian and Romanian parentage, which created him a person too light to be seen as African and too dark to be considered European. His experiences as he sought to navigate an existence in these two worlds neither of which claimed him, influenced him to write the award winning song “Human Being”. This track has the distinction of not only winning the 2006 WCS International Song Contest, but also serving as the soundtrack to the anti-child trafficking campaign led by UNICEF and the Ministry of Women and Children in Ghana.

Wanlov the Kubolor, an authentic individual, is a true rascal and a self styled adventure. As a listener, his life-force, pure talent, and lyrical skill will engage you as he entertains, informs and shares. As the nexus of Pidgen Music, the Kubolor is adamant and true to his desires to positively impacting the quality of life for all. Kubolor kubolor kubolor kubolor kubolor!

Discography:
Album - "GREEN CARD" - '07 - Pidgen Music
Single - "Never Die" - '07 - Fader Label
Single - "Gentleman" - M.anifest ft Wanlov the Kubolor - '07
Single – “Welcome to the Motherland” – Wanlov the Kubolor ft Young Kof & DJ Ritchy Pitch.

Awards:
2006 WCS International Song Contest - Winner (World) - "Human Being"
2006 International Songwriting Competition - Finalist (World) - “Never Die"
2007 Peacedriven Songwriting Award - Runner Up - "Human Being"

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