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Hometown: Buffalo, NY
Website: www.kilissa.com
Sounds Like: Carole King, Fionna Apple, Nina Simone., Patti Smith, Elvis Costello
Genre: Singer Songwriter
Classically trained and soulfully syncopated, Kilissa Cissoko is a tuneful and observant songwriter with comparisons to Carole King and Fiona Apple. With nuanced vocals and subtle piano textures she plays on the balance of candid wit and emotional honesty.
Originally from Baltimore and raised in Chicago, Kilissa now makes her home in Buffalo where she earned her music performance and education degrees at the State University of New York. She gained recognition in the 90’s touring with the indie/folk duo the Jazzabels, performing at major venues and festivals in the US and abroad. She took a hiatus from performing for motherhood and teaches music full time in the Buffalo Public Schools. She is currently writing and recording material for an upcoming CD release as well as a musical theater production.
“For Kilissa Cissoko, Infringement provides a space to hone her project, a work-in-progress called "JFK: The Musical" based on her experience in an airport after her flight to Germany was egregiously delayed in 2008. Cissoko presented some rough drafts of songs from the musical at last year's festival and will conduct more workshops at 7 p.m. July 26 and 27 in the Gateway Gallery (141 Elmwood Ave.).
"I think people will enjoy having a chance to see the creative process, and it'll allow me to try out some new ideas," Cissoko said. "Infringement gives everybody a lot of sympathetic vibration."”
Colin Dabkowski - The Buffalo News
