Emerging from a prolonged and deafening silence that spanned several years, we now have a glimpse into the whereabouts of the Beninese singer Kiinzah.
Morgyane Fadonougbo, also known as Kiinzah, is a captivating chapter in the Beninese showbiz scene. She was a source of empathetic melodies, who chose to switch off her microphone, exit the concert stages, and step away from the spotlight, bidding farewell to recording studios. She ventured away from the fiercely competitive universe of showbiz.
Almost a decade after her withdrawal from the music scene, BENIN WEB TV has learned that Kiinzah, who decided to step away from showbiz to become, unknown to many, an author, now resides in France with her husband. Her geographic location was confirmed to BENIN WEB TV by a close associate of the singer, who also resides in France.
Kiinzah, the Almost Diva Like the singer Sessimè, Morgyane Fadonougbo, alias Kiinzah, was revealed in 2007 through the Star Promo competition, and her talent shone through her youthful presence. A pure product of the EACE (Ensemble Artistique et Culturel des Étudiants) at the University of Abomey-Calavi, it’s undeniable that she was on the path to becoming an indispensable figure in Benin’s World Music scene.
With her song titled “Perle d’Ebène” (Ebony Pearl), Kiinzah unmistakably showed her inclination for socially conscious music where the message and lyrics took precedence over musicality. Drawing inspiration from predecessors such as Sagbohan Danialou and Jean Adagbénon, this talented artist created a delicate and captivating harmony. “Perle d’Ebène” is a true musical gem that managed to resonate with listeners due to its depth and sincerity. Beninese people were enthralled by Kiinzah’s captivating creation.
The messages conveyed in her early songs, including “Lélé,” “Iya,” “Akpodofi,” and “Perle d’Ebène,” marked her as a new hope for Beninese music, thanks to the emotion she exuded.
Shift in Priorities, Kiinzah Steps Back However, following a successful collaboration with Dibi Dobo, an internationally recognized first album, and a splendid second album that seamlessly blended tradition and modernity, no one was prepared for the Kiinzah ship to drop anchor.
In an interview with Mamabénin in 2016, Kiinzah attempted to justify her career break, explaining, “The timing and my commitments don’t allow me to fully devote myself to my passion for music… Priorities have simply shifted. I’m at a stage in my life where I need to define my priorities and options. I’m realizing myself through other skills, and when the time comes, I’ll return…”
Like some artists, Kiinzah had multiple talents. However, with her academic achievements, she didn’t envision sacrificing everything to make the microphone her lifelong companion.
