Lhasa de Sela

Lhasa de Sela, born on September 27, 1972, was a remarkable singer-songwriter whose artistry transcended borders. Raised in both Mexico and the United States, she later divided her adult life between Canada and France, enriching the music scene with her unique sound and cultural influences.

Her debut album, La Llorona, achieved Platinum status in Canada, earning her prestigious accolades including a Félix Award and a Juno Award. This success propelled her into the spotlight, leading to a tour with Lilith Fair and a stint with her sisters in a French circus troupe, where her distinctive husky voice added depth to the musical experience.

After relocating to Marseille, Lhasa began to craft more songs, eventually returning to Montreal to produce her second album, The Living Road. Her contributions to the music world were recognized when BBC Radio 3 named her the best world music artist of the Americas in 2005. During this period, she also published a book reflecting on her experiences while touring.

In 2008, Lhasa recorded her third album, simply titled Lhasa. However, her journey took a tragic turn when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. After enduring twenty-one months of treatment, she passed away on New Year's Day in 2010. In January 2012, a memorial program celebrating her music was held in Montreal, featuring artists who had collaborated with her throughout her career.