Sahra Halgan

Sahra Halgan is a hero in the music scene of Somaliland, a country in the Horn of Africa that declared independence in 1991 but remains unrecognized by the international community. In the 1980s, she earned the nickname "Halgan," meaning "the fighter," for her role in the war against the dictatorship; her songs became the voice of the people. In the capital city of Hargeisa, she founded the Hiddo Dhawr Club ("Promoting Culture"), the first live music venue in the region.

Her latest album (2024), also titled Hiddo Dhawr, is visionary in its fusion of Somali musical traditions with funk, blues, and garage rock, earning high praise from international critics.

Halgan’s powerful voice, marked by a strong vibrato, often intertwines themes of love and politics, enriched with Somali proverbs and poetic lyrics. The guitar of Maël Salètes and the percussion of Aymeric Krol evoke the sounds of the Songhai and Tuareg music from northern Mali. This unexpected connection between East and West works brilliantly, unified by bluesy pentatonics and relaxed grooves. The band is rounded out by Régis Monte, whose keyboard playing intentionally echoes the Somali pop sounds of the 1970s and 80s, complemented by funky basslines.

Their vibrant dance songs and reflective ballads are a captivating testament to Somaliland’s rich musical heritage and Sahra Halgan’s brave and forward-thinking artistry.

Sahra Halgan – vocals
Maël Salete – guitar
Régis Monte – keyboards
Aymeric Krol – drums, percussion

sahrahalgan.bandcamp.com