Ibeyi

Ibeyi is a French musical duo made up of twin sisters Lisa-Kaindé Díaz and Naomi Díaz. They form in 2012 and are based in Paris. Their music sits across contemporary R&B, downtempo, electronic, experimental, leftfield and soul, with tags also placing them near trip-hop, dream pop and indie.

Background and language

The pair are Cuban-born and perform in French, English, Spanish and Yoruba. Yoruba is a West African language brought to Cuba by enslaved Africans, and the sisters use it as part of their vocal approach.

Instrumentation and family connection

Ibeyi’s sound is built around percussion and piano. Naomi Díaz plays cajón and batá, while Lisa-Kaindé Díaz sings lead vocals and plays piano. The duo’s work also reflects their father’s legacy: Cuban jazz percussionist Miguel “Angá” Díaz.

Recordings

Ibeyi are signed to XL Recordings. They release the Oya EP, which includes the track “River”. Their self-titled album Ibeyi is produced by Richard Russell. Songs associated with that album include “Mama Says” and “Ghosts”.

Activity

The group tours in Europe and the United States and continues as an active duo.