Diane Hôlybrunê (born 1995), known professionally as Holybrune, is a French-Beninese singer, songwriter, and record producer. She is known for her innovative fusion of alternative R&B, electronic music, and traditional West African sounds. Her work has been noted for its contribution to contemporary electronic soul music and African musical representation in mainstream European media.
Early life
Hôlybrunê was born in Paris, France, to a French mother and Beninese father. She grew up in the city’s 18th arrondissement, where she was exposed to diverse musical traditions. She began studying classical piano at age six and later learned traditional Beninese percussion instruments.
Career
2013–2017: Early career and breakthrough
Holybrune began her music career in 2013 by uploading cover songs to YouTube. Her early recordings caught the attention of the Parisian underground music scene, leading to performances at local venues. In 2015, she independently released her first EP, “Midnight Meditations,” which combined electronic elements with traditional African percussion.
Her breakthrough came with the 2017 single “Moonlight Soul,” which gained significant attention on streaming platforms and was praised by critics for its innovative blend of electronic and African musical elements.
2019–present: Major label success
Following her initial success, Holybrune signed with [Major Label] in late 2018. Her major label debut album “Soul Seeds” (2019) received widespread critical acclaim and was nominated for Best New Artist at the Victoires de la Musique. The album peaked at number 12 on the French Albums Chart.
Her second album, “Divine Frequencies” (2021), saw her experimenting further with electronic production while incorporating field recordings from Benin. The album was included in several “Best of 2021” lists by publications including Pitchfork and The FADER.
In 2023, she released “Ancestral Future,” which debuted in the top 10 of the French Albums Chart and received international critical acclaim.
Artistry
Musical style
Holybrune’s music combines elements of alternative R&B, electronic music, and traditional West African rhythms. Critics have described her sound as “Afro-futuristic soul.” Her work frequently incorporates field recordings from Benin, electronic manipulation, and traditional African instruments.
Influences
She has cited various influences, including Björk, Nina Simone, Sade, and traditional Beninese musicians. Her work also draws inspiration from electronic producers like Arca and James Blake.
Live performances
Her live shows are known for incorporating multimedia elements, including visual projections, live electronic manipulation, and traditional African instruments. She has performed at major festivals including Glastonbury, Primavera Sound, and Afropunk Paris.
Awards and nominations
Awards
- Prix Découvertes RFI (2018)
- [Additional awards]
Nominations
- Victoires de la Musique – Best New Artist (2019)
- [Additional nominations]
Discography
Studio albums
- “Soul Seeds” (2019)
- “Divine Frequencies” (2021)
- “Ancestral Future” (2023)
Extended plays
- “Midnight Meditations” (2015)
- “Electronic Soul” (2017)
- “Cosmic Rhythms” (2018)
Singles
- “Moonlight Soul” (2017)
- “Digital Ancestors” (2019)
- “Sacred Spaces” (2020)
- “Future Memories” (2022)
Personal life
Holybrune maintains a private personal life but has spoken publicly about her practice of meditation and study of traditional African spirituality. She is known for her advocacy of environmental causes and support of young female producers in the music industry.
Cultural impact
Holybrune’s work has been credited with helping to bring traditional African musical elements into contemporary electronic music. Her success has influenced a new generation of producers and artists exploring the intersection of electronic music and African musical traditions.