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BioMahaleo: Madagascar's Enduring Folk-Pop Band. Mahaleo, a renowned folk-pop band from Madagascar, stands as one of the most revered musical groups in Malagasy history. Founded by Dama (Rasolofondraosolo Zafimahaleo) and six classmates during the 1972 rotaka student protests, Mahaleo's lyrics delve into contemporary political and social issues using the poetic language of hainteny and ohabolana. Their genre, tsentsigat, combines elements of acoustic folk, protest songs, and Madagascar's rich musical traditions, with each band member contributing vocals and most playing acoustic guitar. Despite facing censorship, Mahaleo's popularity soared, and they maintained a commitment to national development and grassroots action, reflected in over 300 compositions since their inception. Their enduring legacy is marked by international tours, documentary films, and a profound impact on Malagasy identity.
DiscographyLive à l'Olympia (Edition integrale)2007 • AlbumTracks: 44 Mahaleo Live à L'Olympia, Paris2007 • AlbumTracks: 20 Mahaleo (Bande originale du film de Paes & Rajaonrivelo2004 • AlbumTracks: 18 Tadidiko (Madagascar)1997 • AlbumTracks: 14 Mahaleo en concert1991 • AlbumTracks: 16 