Zap Mama: The Healer

When Marie Daulne first emerged on the scene as the founder and lead singer of Zap Mama in 1993, she didn’t fathom she’d have such a profound effect on music. Bridging the gap between her native Belgium and the western world, as well as those of Latin American and Africa, Zap Mama has become an international bridge builder, fused together by poignant sounds, creating an escapist soundtrack for the mind.

“When people listen to the music of Zap Mama, they can close their eyes and travel through my sound,” she says.

With their seventh release, ReCreation, an electric fusion of acid jazz, world music and hip-hop, Zap Mama is more appreciated than ever. Having worked with everyone from Erykah Badu (who regularly sources her as a major inspiration) to the Roots, Daulne says that her ability to work with artists from a variety of genres is a testament to the power of music.

“I was inspired by sounds from all over the world,” she says. “All beauty is not the same everywhere, I try to find the universal beauty. What makes beauty appreciated all over the world?”

Daulne says that while the international community’s embracing arms have been a high point in her successful career, her true greatest accomplishment has been in her personal life.

“It’s my kids,” she says simply in her rich accent. “That’s the most beautiful thing I’ve done. My 15-year-old is so well balanced and we’re not fighting, which is wonderful.”

Personal accomplishments aside, Daulne hopes that Zap Mama continues to inspire.

“Everybody knows that without music, life would be sad,” she reasons. “Music is always present. It’s healing.”  –jh