From sharing stages with Alessia Cara, Walk Off the Earth, Serena Rider, Lisa Leblanc, and opening for the 5x time grammy winner Angélique Kidjo, Kelly Bado is redefining borders in music.

Her highly anticipated album, Belles Âmes has launched an international journey across Canada and Asia and earned the 2026 Kevin Walter Memorial Songwriter Award, and the Global Artist of the Year 2025 at the WCMAs. Produced by Grammy-nominated, Juno-winning Brian "Sweetwesty" West—whose work with Nelly Furtado, K’NAAN, Sia, and Maroon 5 has shaped the sound of a generation—the album is a stunning fusion of Angélique Kidjo’s African rhythm, Yuna’s soulful serenity, and Corneille’s vibe.

Born in Côte d'Ivoire and now based in Manitoba, Kelly Bado’s distinctive sound made her an ambassador for musical diversity—bridging generations, geographies, and genres with every note.

Kelly is also the proud recipient of the Art and Culture Award at the Black and Proud Gala 2024 and the Best Americana Song Award at the Native American Music Award 2024 for her song Good people written by Award-Winning producer Chris Burke-Gaffney (Chantial Kreviatzuk, Natalie Porter,...) and recorded with Juno Artists Indian City and Julian Taylor.

A standout on La Voix Québec Season VI, she earned the People’s Choice Award. Following her powerful duet of “Let It Be” with Yama Laurent, Sir Paul McCartney praised the performance, saying, “WOW! What a fabulous, emotional and inspiring performance!”

Kelly has been showcasing her best work yet, performing songs from her latest, Belles Âmes, and preparing for the release of her next record in 2027. An unapologetic, fresh exploration of musical and cultural expression, the upcoming English album is produced with Chin Injeti known for his frequent collaborations with DJ Khalil and productions with Dr. Dre, 50 Cent, Drake, Clipse, Eminem and Pink–his work throughout the years has garnered three Grammys and a Juno Award.

With upcoming unique collaborations across Japan, Québec, and the UK, Kelly Bado continues to expand her global footprint.

  • 2026 Kevin Walter Memorial Award

    This Award recognizes professional songwriters in Manitoba who embody values such as generosity, community participation, and a passionate advocacy for the cultural scene in Manitoba.

  • WESTERN CANADIAN MUSIC AWARDS WINNER

    — Global Artist of the Year 2025 —

    — Francophone Artist of the Year 2021 —

    — Global Artist of the Year 2021 —

  • 3x Trille Or Nomined - 2024

    — Audience Favourite (Coup de coeur du public) —

    — Breakthrough Artist (Révélation) —

    — Solo Artist (Artiste Solo) —

  • Opening act for 5 times Grammy winner Angelique Kidjo during her world tour in 2023.

  • People’s Choice award at La Voix Quebec season 6

    With amazing performances under the guidance of international singer and performer Lara Fabian.

  • “WOW! What a fabulous, emotional and inspiring performance!”

    Sir Paul McCartney, after hearing Kelly's performance of ‘‘Let It Be’’ with Yama Laurent at La Voix Quebec season 6.

  • Best Americana Song Award

    At the Native American Music Award 2024 for the song ‘‘Good people’’ written by Award-Winning producer Chris Burke-Gaffney.

Awards & Recognitions

  • This Award recognizes professional songwriters in Manitoba who embody values such as generosity, community participation, and a passionate advocacy for the cultural scene in Manitoba.

  • Artist of the Year Award

  • — Audience Favourite (Coup de coeur du public) —

    — Breakthrough Artist (Révélation) —

    — Solo Artist (Artiste Solo) —

  • Art and Culture award - Gala Noir et fier 2024

  • Francophone Artist of the Year 2021

    Global Artist of the Year - WCMA 2021 (Album Hey Terre)

  • Francophone Artist of the Year - WCM 2020 (Album Hey Terre)

  • World Music Artist of the Year - WCMA 2018 (EP Entre Deux)

Electronic Press Kit I MUM initiative