Maureen: Queen

"Over the last few years, shatta-an offshoot of dancehall that originated in the 2010s-has taken over the Francophone world. The genre was born in the French overseas territory of Martinique, then became popular across the rest of the Caribbean and, in particular, in France itself. Mainstream Francophone singers and rappers have released songs influenced by the style and have collaborated with Martinican shatta artists, collecting platinum records and accolades along the way."

"Compared to other dancehall music, shatta tends to feature sparser, more minimal electronic beats, accompanied by hard-hitting basslines; it sounds tense, unpredictable, bordering on erratic. As explained by singer Maureen, the style lends itself to clear, no-holds-barred self-expression-and if anyone has a claim to understanding what shatta is capable of, it's her. In the past few years, Maureen has released a number"

Shatta originated in Martinique in the 2010s and quickly spread across the Caribbean and France, influencing mainstream Francophone artists. The genre emphasizes sparse, minimal electronic beats and hard-hitting basslines that create a tense, unpredictable sound. Maureen rose through singles like "Tic," "Flex," and "Bend Down," using Martinican Creole, French, and Patois with raunchy, clever lyrics. Production strips contemporary dancehall to raw elements, often relying on memorable basslines. Her tracks opened doors to collaborations and global recognition. Her debut album Queen extends shatta into a sustained listening experience, beginning with the party-minded "Welcome to Shattaland."

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