Band

Neneh Cherry

Mapped through Pop, Trip hop influences; 7 albums in the Staimusic archive.

Neneh Cherry
Biography

Neneh Cherry: history and sound

Neneh Cherry (born 10 March 1964) is a Swedish-born singer-songwriter, rapper, and occasional DJ and broadcaster.
The Underrated Genius of Neneh Cherry
In the vast landscape of music, artists come and go, shining bright for a few seasons, and then fading away into obscurity. Some, however, don't get the recognition they deserve, despite their immense talents and groundbreaking work. One such artist is Neneh Cherry, an icon of alternative music who broke boundaries and paved the way for future generations of musicians. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the musical biography of Neneh Cherry, explore her best songs, music genre, famous concerts, and appreciate this gem of a musician.
Neneh Cherry was born in Stockholm, Sweden, in 1964, but spent her childhood moving between different parts of Europe with her mother, the artist Moki Cherry, and her jazz musician stepfather, Don Cherry. This eclectic upbringing exposed Neneh to a myriad of musical influences, and she developed an eclectic taste that would later inform her own work. She released her first album, Raw Like Sushi, in 1989, which became a commercial and critical success thanks to hits such as Buffalo Stance and Manchild. The album's mix of rap, pop, and funk, coupled with Neneh's unique vocal style and rebellious image, made her stand out in the male-dominated music scene of the time.
Over the years, Neneh has explored different genres and collaborated with an impressive array of artists, from Michael Stipe of R.E.M. to Gorillaz and Four Tet. She has released six solo albums to date, each showcasing her versatility and vision. However, if you want to experience the essence of Neneh's artistry, you should listen to Man, her 1996 release. The album is a fusion of rock, electronic, and soul, featuring haunting melodies and poetic lyrics. Woman, Kootchi, and Trouble Man are some highlights of the album that showcase Neneh's range and depth.
Despite her impressive catalog, Neneh's influence and legacy have often been overlooked, especially in the USA. This is a pity, as she is a true pioneer who has shattered stereotypes and challenged conventions. For instance, in 1988, she became the first woman of color to ever appear on MTV's Yo! MTV Raps, paving the way for other Black artists to access mainstream media. Her activism and humanitarian work are also worth mentioning, as she has dedicated her time and resources to support social justice causes such as anti-racism and women's rights.
In conclusion, Neneh Cherry is a rare gem in the world of music, an artist who has defied labels and expectations to create her own sound and vision. Her music ranges from upbeat dance anthems to introspective ballads, always infused with her unique style and sensibility. Neneh Cherry has left a mark on music history, inspiring countless artists and earning a place in our hearts. So, dear readers, let us celebrate Neneh Cherry and spread the word about her awesomeness. With her music, we can dance, we can think, we can dream, and most importantly, we can feel alive.
Songs

Selected YouTube songs from our archive

Outré Risqué Locomotive
Neneh Cherry Outré Risqué Locomotive
Soldier
Neneh Cherry Soldier
Buffalo Stance (sukka Mix)
Neneh Cherry Buffalo Stance (sukka Mix)
Move With Me (dub)
Neneh Cherry Move With Me (dub)
Cheap Breakfast Special
Neneh Cherry Cheap Breakfast Special
Golden Ring
Neneh Cherry Golden Ring
Articles and news

Stories, updates and listening guides