Cesária Évora's Life and Music

Cesária Évora's Life and Music is a four-part biographical series that delves into the life and legacy of Cape Verdean singer Cesária Évora, known for popularizing morna, the soulful genre of Cape Verdean music. Born in poverty on the island of São Vicente, Cesária’s journey from singing in the streets to becoming a global sensation is a story of resilience, love, and music. Her barefoot performances became an iconic symbol of her authenticity and connection to her roots, captivating audiences worldwide.

The series takes viewers through the highs and lows of her life—her struggles as a young singer, her time away from music, and her meteoric rise to fame in her later years, when she performed on prestigious stages across the globe. It also explores her collaborations, her personal battles with addiction, and how she became a cultural ambassador for Cape Verde, spreading its music to the world.

Unique Selling Points

• Cultural Icon: Cesária Évora is one of the most influential world music artists, with a legacy that continues to inspire musicians globally. Her unique voice and barefoot performances resonated with audiences far beyond Cape Verde, making her a true cultural ambassador.
• Global Appeal: With millions of fans across France, the U.S., and beyond, the series is primed to capture the hearts of music lovers and those interested in biographical dramas. From her performance at the Angoulême Festival to being honored by UNESCO, her impact is undeniable.
• Music as a Narrative: The series is not only a celebration of Cesária’s life but also a tribute to morna, the music genre she championed. Her songs, filled with themes of love, longing, and nostalgia, are woven into the narrative, bringing a deeper connection between her life and her art.

Key Themes

• Resilience: Despite personal and professional setbacks, Cesária’s passion for music never wavered, and she achieved global fame later in life, proving that dreams can be realized at any age.
• Love and Nostalgia: Many of her songs explore the emotional weight of love, homesickness, and longing, themes that will be explored through her relationships and personal experiences.
• Cultural Legacy: The series highlights how Cesária’s music not only put Cape Verde on the map but also continues to inspire new generations of musicians.

Audience and Demographics

Primary Target Audience: Adults (25-44), especially fans of world music, biographical stories, and cultural dramas.

Secondary Audience: Music lovers and people familiar with Cesária’s music, particularly in France and Portuguese-speaking countries.

Psychographics: Individuals with an interest in cultural diversity, inspirational life stories, and music history.

Shooting Locations

• Cape Verde: Authentic locations where Cesária grew up, capturing the atmosphere of São Vicente and the spirit of morna.
• Portugal: Highlighting her recording journey and the pivotal moments of her career.
• France: Focus on her rise to international fame, particularly at the Angoulême Festival, where she first captured global attention.

Market Opportunity

The global recognition of Cesária Évora, particularly in French-speaking countries and the United States, provides significant market potential. Cesária is celebrated as a world music icon, making this series attractive to platforms and networks that cater to audiences interested in music documentaries, biopics, and culturally rich content.

With over 200 million YouTube views of her performances and the global resonance of her songs like "Sodade" and "Besame Mucho," this series can attract a diverse audience. Her tribute by Madonna in 2019 during the "Madame X" tour also emphasizes her ongoing relevance in modern music culture.

Cesária Évora's Life and Music is more than just a biographical series; it’s a celebration of one of the most remarkable voices in world music. Through a narrative filled with passion, heartache, and triumph, this series will not only capture the spirit of Cesária Évora but also share her incredible story with the world, ensuring her legacy lives on for generations to come.