Bio
If you don't know this Vancouver artist, well get to know and remember this name - Missy D. She's been rhyming since the tender age of 11, effortlessly switching between French and English, hailing from the Motherland with roots in Rwanda, Côte d’Ivoire, and Zimbabwe. Her passion for music transcends boundaries, ignited by the likes of the iconic Missy Elliott, Ms. Lauryn Hill to the legendary MC Solaar, 2Pac, Diams, India.Arie, Stromae and J. Cole. This femcee has carved her own musical path, a fusion of genres she often calls "Rap & Soul."
Now based in Vancouver, Missy D isn't just a performer; she's a force to be reckoned with, a proud member of Laydy Jams and a part-time interviewer . Her live performances are nothing short of electrifying, her mesmerizing stage presence mixed in with a live hip hop dynamic band resonates with audiences of all ages. She will get you grooving, feeling, singing along and maybe even practicing some French! She has been making waves in her community as the 2024 WCMA winner for Francophone Artist of the Year. In 2023, Missy D’s song “Case Depart” was part of Manie Musicale and she is also a 2024 Ambassador for Francophone Music.
Over the years, Missy D has graced stages at renowned festivals like SXSW, NXNE, Juno Fest, Vancouver Jazz Festival, Vancouver International Children's Festival, Festival du bois, Le Festival du Voyageur, and Rifflandia, sharing the spotlight with notable acts such as Maestro Fresh Wes, Jully Black, Sons Of Kemet, Mr.Eazi, The Sorority, Snotty Nose Rez Kids, K'naan, Anderson Paak and Shaggy to name a few.
Her Case Depart continues and Missy D has more promising work on the horizon, showcasing a diverse celebration of music, instrumental, people, brilliance, languages and unity. Get ready to be swept away by the energetic, hip-hop-infused world of Missy D, where every beat tells a story, and every rhyme ignites the stage with that je ne sais quoi: “So 1, 2, 3, on y va, on y va.”
Young Audience & Family Shows
1, 2, 3 On y va!
If you don’t know this artist yet, what have you been waiting for? Missy D is a hip hop, rap & soul artist who makes music as a form of therapy. She empowers folks with love and music as a way to express feelings, share a message and connect with listeners. This femcee comes from the 3 corners of the motherland (Rwanda, Côte d’Ivoire, Zimbabwe) and has been rapping since she was 11 years old in French and English in a style she calls Rap & Soul. In a fusion of sounds from her childhood, Missy draws inspiration from French melodies to r&b, soul, jazz, hip hop, rock and rap legends. Missy D will have you feeling all the feels and singing YES MAMA as she embraces diversity in instrumentals, music and most of all, people. 123, on y va, on y va!
Languages: English, French, bilingual
Length: Live show: 45-min plus 15-min QA (only available for theatre bookings or festivals)
Formats: With a DJ or with a 4-pc band
Ages: Grades K-12; all ages for family events
Band: 4 members (vocals, keyboards, bass and trumpet, drums)
TESTIMONIALS
“This is the sound of an artist who's feeling themself, and it's glorious. It's the syncopated strut of the brass funk backbeat, the warm nostalgia of golden age hip-hop nods and namedrops, and the lush velvet flow of Missy D singing and rapping.”
- Andrea Warner, CBC Music
"The term “music for kids” might conjure up hellish replays of “Baby Shark,” but that’s not the case with Missy D. In fact, the upbeat, honest and unapologetic nature of hip hop makes it a perfect fit for younger crowds. For children and adults, English- and French-speaking alike, Missy D’s songs tackle themes of identity, belonging and community. "
- Alyssa Hirose, Vancouver Magazine
“Case Départ, skillfully combines bilingualism, rap, and vocals to move us through the highs and lows as she journeys back to her starting point, remembers her defining experiences, and reintroduces herself with a rejuvenated outlook on home, grief, and purpose. By diving deep into her specific experiences, Missy D creates an even more relatable story, with great musicality to back it up."
—Kimara Wanjiru, Discorder Magazine
“I've booked Missy D for two years in a row for schools and families due to her popularity and sold out shows. Missy lights up the stage with her incredible music, charisma and infectious creativity. Her singing and rapping invite you to join her on a journey through stories and adventures from her own life. The energy in the room is explosive in the most amazing way…..bearing witness to 450 youth who are dancing, singing and chanting her name as she weaves her magic throughout her concerts is awe inspiring!"
—Katharine Carol, Artistic & Executive Director, Vancouver International Children’s Festival
"Because of you [Missy D], students experienced something truly special: the chance to connect with an inspiring artist in French and see language and culture come alive in a powerful, memorable way. hank you for everything you did to make this event outstanding. Your commitment to our students and to FSL education is inspiring!"
—Angeline Humber, Teacher Consultant - FSL, Greater Essex County District School Board, Ontario
"Missy D and DJ Matt were absolutely incredible today!! The kids and teachers are all raving about the concert and how fantastic it was! Missy D had so much energy and relates so well to the kids. She spreads her positivity so easily and connects with her audience."
—Jackie Whiting, FSL Consultant, Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board, Ontario