Born on June 29, 1989, in Abidjan, Gnakrou Josée Priscille, better known as Josey, has quickly established herself as one of the leading voices in the Ivorian music scene. Her unique blend of coupé-décalé, Afro-zouk, RnB, and soul has captivated a diverse and international audience.
The First Steps Toward Fame
Josey grew up with music as her backdrop, showcasing her singing talents as early as age eight during a church performance. As a teenager, she dabbled in rap as part of her high school group Quarantaine (40T'N), marking the start of a career characterized by originality and boldness. After attending the National School of Administration in Côte d'Ivoire, she chose to fully dedicate herself to her passion: music.
In 2012, her participation in the Castel Live Opera contest, broadcast in ten African countries, thrust her into the spotlight. Although she finished in second place, this experience marked the beginning of a series of collaborations that would cement her reputation.
A Voice for Advocacy and Admiration
In 2014, her single On fait rien avec ça skyrocketed her popularity. The track, a true anthem for women, reflects Josey’s sensitivity to women's issues, earning her the nickname "Advocate for Women." The song garnered millions of views on YouTube, confirming her message’s strength and her ability to connect with a broad audience.
Her 2015 song Diplôme, in which she discusses women's expectations from men, became an instant hit and reinforced her image as an outspoken and committed artist. In 2016, Josey embraced her roots by releasing You Galoh, a song in her native language, and continued her string of successes with both local and international collaborations.
A Versatile Artist
Josey constantly surprises with her versatility. In 2017, she sang in Lingala on the track Jour J-0, a notable performance despite not speaking the language. Her adaptability makes her a complete artist, effortlessly transitioning from Congolese rumba to pop music.
In addition to her musical career, Josey showcased her skills as a coach on The Voice Afrique Francophone in 2018, taking over from Cameroonian singer Charlotte Dipanda. Her charisma and experience made her a respected mentor, guiding the new generation of African artists.
A Private Life Under the Spotlight
On a personal level, Josey shares her life with Ivorian international footballer Serey Dié, with whom she has two children. This relationship, often the subject of media discussions, has not hindered the artist’s determination to continue shining on the musical stage.
Ambassador for Copyright
In recognition of her talent and influence in the African music industry, Josey was named a copyright ambassador in Côte d'Ivoire by the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC) in 2018. This title affirms her key role not only in music but also in defending artists' rights in Africa.
An Icon on the Rise
Today, Josey is more than just a singer. She is an iconic figure in Ivorian music, a voice that transcends borders and genres. Her ever-growing fan base eagerly awaits each new release, knowing that the artist constantly reinvents herself.