Rossy

Paul Bert Rahasimanana, known as Rossy, is a celebrated Malagasy singer, songwriter, and cultural icon. Born in 1960, he began his career in traditional hira gasy troupes and later fused Malagasy musical styles like salegy and vakisôva with rock, funk, and folk to create a modern Malagasy pop sound.

Rossy rose to prominence in the 1990s with albums like Island of Ghosts and Bal Kabosy, earning international recognition and becoming closely associated with former President Didier Ratsiraka. After a self-imposed exile in France following the 2001 elections, he returned to Madagascar in 2008 for record-breaking concerts at Mahamasina Stadium.

Known for socially conscious lyrics and energetic performances, Rossy also supports Malagasy music through initiatives like Studio Pro, providing recording facilities for local artists, and Le Toit de la Culture, a center for promoting traditional arts. He continues to perform and influence Madagascar’s music scene.