Canadian singer Ima comes to Turkey

By Nilay Kar and Burcu Arik Ozer

Mix Monica Molina and Pink Martini, with a 60s and 70s vibe, and then stir in some jazz, electro-pop, rock and folk. Marie-Andree Bergeron, better known by her stage name Ima, has claimed her success among other Canadian superstars, such as Celine Dion, Alanis Morrissette and Bryan Adams.

The French-Canadian singer made a breakthrough with her 2002 debut album, Ima. Her third album, “Smile,” which includes a mix of jazz classics, immediately reached platinum status after its release in 2007. "Smile" stayed in the Canadian music charts for over 60 weeks.

Her love of world music really became clear with the release of her latest album a La Vida, which covers her favorite tracks from different eras. Ima is once again in Turkey to perform both in Istanbul on Feb. 25 at the Cemal Resit Rey Concert Hall, and in Ankara on Feb. 27 at the MEB Sura Hall. 

In an exclusive interview with Anadolu Agency (AA) before her performance in Istanbul, the singer spoke about her songs, albums, inspirations and brief visit to Turkey.

- You sing in many languages and different styles. How would you describe your music?

"I do very different styles of music but they all mix well together. I mix between Monica Molina and Pink Martini. I sing cover songs from the standard jazz and mix them to Latin and Salsa. Turkish is a beautiful language.”

- You do not only sing but also compose. What are your inspirations when you are making your songs?

"I have just finished my last album. I always say that I do not judge the creation. I start working on lyrics, and usually the music comes first. I listen a lot the old music. I love s mix of jazz and Manush."

"Actually I am a traveler. I am inspired by other cultures. So I want to put them into my music and I want to make people dream. Because life is hard for everyone and we listen to music, to artists and just want to dream. That is my purpose to make people feel good, taking them in a trip especially to the warm countries. That is why I am very inspired by Latin countries.

- Which singers do inspire you? Do you know any Turkish singers?

I really love Nina Simon who mostly did mostly jazz. I love Dalida who sings love songs, and I have also discovered Ajda Pekkan in Turkey. I think she has an amazing career. She is beautiful and she sings very different kinds of music. I think she is very inspiring. 

- You said in an interview that "the language of my songs is the language of my heart". Do you reflect your feelings in your songs?

"When I sing a song, I know it is one of the only ways I can make people feel something. I really enjoy dramatic songs. When we have our heart broken, when we live through hard times, it is very easy for me to go into that feeling when singing a song. Love songs make people feel good, but it is not only about relationships, but it’s also about life, family, and what is happening in the world. So, I put love into my songs."

- Your "Precious" album has many songs from the 70s music scene. What do you love about the 70s?

"I had a fascination when I was younger with the era. I think they had freedom, and it felt like everything was just starting. Everybody was trying things, and being bold. People were not afraid to talk about romance. It was a cliché but it was nice. It was also the beginning of sexual liberation; it was very interesting.”

- You've been in Istanbul before. What is the most beautiful thing in Istanbul? Do you have a special story about Istanbul?  

"I came here three years ago for the first time with Sinan, my producer. He took me to amazing restaurants and places. I love Turkish food, and I really like Sultanahmet and the Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar, and of course the souks. Istanbul is very special."

englishnews@aa.com.tr