Les Negresses Vertes

A French band from Paris that could fit in the world-music sphere, as their sound has changed from their start in 1987.

Literally translated, the name of the band "Les Négresses Vertes" is a paradox. It translates literally as "Green Black Girls", a name that does not make a great deal of sense in English, but apparently originated from abuse hurled at them at one of their first concerts. However, 'vert' can also mean 'fresh', so an equal translation would be "Fresh Black Girls".

The original line-up included:
Helno (Singer) (born Noël Rota in Paris, 25 December 1963, death 22 January 1993; also known as Helno Rota de Lourcqua), Jo Roz (also known as l'Ami Ro; real name Joe Ruffier des Aimes) (Piano), Stéfane Mellino (Guitar), Jean-Marie Paulus (Bass), Gaby (Drums), Mathias Canavese (Accordion), Michel Ochowiak (Trumpet), Abraham Sirinix (also known as Abraham Braham) (Trombone) and Iza Mellino (Backing Vocals).