Born in Madagascar in 1956 of a Betsileo mother and a French father, Tao Ravao left his native island for France at the age of twelve. He took up the mandolin, then the banjo, and finally the guitar, with which he travelled all over Europe for seven years as a street musician. He met Homesick James, the father of electric blues, who became his mentor. Tao accompanied him on tour in Italy, then to Chicago. In 1980 Tao played at the New Orleans Jazz Festival. His initiation period continued until 1993, when he accompanied Big Walter Horton, Homesick James, Louisiana Red, Grady Gaines and Eddie C. Campbell.
In 1988 he returned to Madagascar and was fascinated by the island's music. With Justin Vali he formed a trio, playing traditional Malagasy music.
He then travelled all over the world playing the kabosy (Canada, United States, Japan, East Africa). Tao's love for Malagasy music led him to work as artistic director to great artists such as D'Gary, Jean Émilien, Sengue and Rajery. He also produced the recordings of Ba Cissoko and Sékou Diabaté of Bembeya Jazz.
Tao Ravao has appeared at many festivals, including Vancouver, Toronto, Winnipeg, Montreal, Austin, Tokyo, Angoulême (‘Musiques métisses') and ‘Africolor'. He appears regularly at Paris clubs.
1 Neny be
2 Bazar be
3 Asmara
4 Rivodoza
5 Massawa
6 Afaka
7 Lefona
8 Mahajanga
9 1947
10 Lazao izy
11 Place Bien-Aimée
12 Anosi be
13 Malala
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