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‘Barefoot Diva’ Cesaria Évora: straightforward yet mysterious
Praised for her sincerity and humble presence on stage, the authentic “Diva aux Pieds Nus” or “Barefoot Diva” has become one of the world's most venerated female singers since her international breakthrough in 1988. But Évora did not gain fame overnight. During an impoverished childhood, Évora was placed in an orphanage by her mother. There, in the choir of the orphanage, she learned to sing. When she was 16, she met Eduardo, the love of her life, a Cape Verdean sailor who taught her the traditional Cape Verdean music styles of coladeiras and mornas, now made famous by Évora through her albums and live performances.
Before her second İstanbul appearance this year, the 67-year-old Évora spoke to Today's Zaman, revealing only a few details about herself. In a previous interview you said you recorded a new album every two years. It has been almost three years since the release of “Rogamar.” Is there a new album in the works?
Yes, I am currently busy with a new recording. It's almost ready. I think that it is going to be released in October or November.
You have been to Turkey several times for concerts. What is the most common characteristic of Turkish people you have met so far?
I know that I have many fans in Turkey that is why I come often to your beautiful country. Turkish people are so kind. They love me; I love them. They take good care of me when I am in Turkey.
You seem very disciplined about your daily routine -- from breakfast until dinner. Are you always that disciplined or are you just that disciplined during your tours?
Yes, it's just for the tours because I am working. It is not [like that during] holidays. At home it's different.
You say you are fond of seafood and rice. What do you think about Turkish cuisine?
I like fish and seafood, but I like Turkish cuisine, too, because it is a cuisine with a lot of spices, and I like that. When I am in Turkey I always request “bulgur” because it looks like some food that we have in Cape Verde, [although it is] not made with wheat but with corn.
In a previous interview two years ago we asked about your love Eduardo. You then said: “My greatest love of all is music. Eduardo is now just a friend, and I recall him as just a friend.” This time I want to ask whether you have experienced real love so far [in your life].
Eduardo was my first love, so it's always a great memory for me. That is why my son's name is Eduardo. I don't know if I can answer your question. What is real love? Do you have an answer?
Your attitude on stage is very sincere. You convey very warm feelings when you light a cigarette and have a seat and relax. How do you define your stage presence?
It's simple and easy: on stage, I concentrate on my performance. I like to make people happy. It's a goal, so I do my best.
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