Labi Siffre

Born in London, Labi Siffre has forged a path through music by dismantling entrenched barriers across his professional life. An openly gay performer, he developed a modest yet devoted audience via songs that confronted homophobia and racism without compromise. In tandem with his extensive album catalog, the versatile Siffre has published multiple volumes of poetry and contributed scripts to theatrical works.

His sound is distinguished by a soulful, high-register voice and lyrics that invite careful reflection. The single "I Got The..." from the 1975 album Remember My Song acquired limited renown long afterward when its distinctive piano groove was incorporated into Eminem's breakthrough 1999 single "My Name Is." In 1988 Siffre scored a success with the anti-apartheid anthem "(Something Inside) So Strong," a recording that highlighted both his vocal command and his dedication to social themes.