Perle Lama

French neo-soul vocalist Perle Lama fused American R&B traditions with Caribbean zouk elements, securing both critical acclaim and strong sales. Born on January 20, 1984, in Fort-de-France, Martinique, she captured first place in the JM Harmony Contest at age 14. That victory delivered a recording contract, which produced her debut album Challenger in 1999; its single “Akwarel la Sé Taw” took the Best Zouk prize at that year’s SACEM Awards. Her 2001 sophomore release Perle Etc. broadened her sound by incorporating reggae textures, earning her two additional SACEM honors, one of which was Best Female Singer. After withdrawing from public view for the following five years, she returned in autumn 2006 with the album Mizikasoleil.