Okan (Canada)
OKAN is an all women contemporary Afro-Cuban Jazz quartet. Taking its name from the word for heart or soul in the Afro-Cuban religion of Santeria, OKAN fuses Afro-Cuban and other global rhythms with jazz, folk and classical forms. Embracing genres and roles that have historically been dominated by men, co-leaders, composers and multi-instrumentalists Elizabeth Rodriguez and MagdelysSavigne bring a fresh perspective to Latin and world jazz fusion through their powerful vocals, incredible musicianship and potent lyrical content. Both are JUNO-nominees for their work with Battle of Santiago and Grammy-nominees and JUNO winners for their contributions to Jane Bunnett and Maqueque of which they are former members. The band won the Independent Music Award in Jazz & World Music Categories as well as the Rising Star Stingray Award.
Living and collaborating in the intensely multicultural city of Toronto has enriched OKAN’s compositions with influences from Brazil, Spain and New Orleans. Having performed at the Beaches, Toronto and Markham Jazz Festivals as well as Harbourfront, LulaworldKultrun and the National Arts Centre, OKAN is all set to create waves in India at the Jaipur Jazz and Blues Festival in Feb 2020.