Flora: "I am a child of the South"!

Headlining these concerts: Joyce Jonathan and the Chœur du Sud but also a true gem of French song, Flora who answers questions from La Gazette du Var. Are you a child of the South? FLORA.

I was born in Gassin, but my parents are Sri-Lankan. I have a very special relationship with my two cultures. The Var is my home, it's where I grew up and developed my passion for music.

I am a true child of the South. However, Sri-Lanka occupies an important place in my heart. I try to go there regularly to see my family, even if it can be difficult.

Sri-Lankan sounds and culture often influence my music.

How did music come into your life? FLORA. From the age of 8, I started singing to escape the difficulties I encountered at school, where I suffered from racism.

I didn't want to go anymore. So, my mother enrolled me in piano lessons to free me. My piano teacher discovered my talent for singing when he heard me humming.

He encouraged me to sing my first song, "Quelqu'un m'a dit" by Carla Bruni. This experience was a turning point for me, and since then, I have never stopped singing. Music has become an essential part of my life.

It allows me to overcome school challenges and to blossom artistically.

After the summer, I am going to move to Paris to pursue my studies at the IMEP Pro - Paris College of Music, a renowned music university. I can't wait to start this new stage, which will allow me to deepen my musical knowledge while continuing to give concerts. Can you tell us about your adventure on The Voice and The Voice Kids?

FLORA. In 2020, I participated in season 7 of The Voice Kids. I was 12 years old.

It was a childhood dream come true. I was registered by my music teacher during a masterclass with Bruno Berber, the casting director. I was in Soprano's team and I reached the Battles.

I was very disappointed by my elimination and I was determined to get my revenge. That's why in 2024, I participated in The Voice. During the blind auditions, I performed "Les Moulins de mon Cœur" by Michel Legrand.

All the judges turned around. I joined Mika's team and had the honor of reaching the quarter-finals. This experience was extremely enriching and allowed me to grow both artistically and humanly.

I was able to receive precious advice from music professionals. This reinforced my passion and determination to pursue a musical career.

How did your integration into the "Ça c'est le Sud" tour go and what were your impressions? FLORA. I joined the "Ça c'est le Sud" tour thanks to Valérie Mérali, the tour organizer, who invited me.

At first, I didn't realize the scale of this 30-date tour. The first evening in Saint-Tropez was a revelation. I was happy to sing on a professional stage, with a large audience and talented musicians.

At 17 years old, it's an incredible opportunity. Joyce Jonathan and the Chœurs du Sud are wonderful. This experience allows me to blossom even more on stage.

How did your environment and the people around you contribute to your journey? FLORA. I would like to express my deep gratitude to the Région Sud for giving me this chance, in particular François de Canson, vice-president of Région, and Renaud Muselier, president of Région, for their support.

Their help is crucial throughout this tour. I wish to thank Valérie Mérali, Joyce Jonathan whose fan I have always been, all the staff, the team of the Comité Régional de Tourisme, and of course the public. They have all played an essential role for me.

It is thanks to their support that I am living this extraordinary experience and growing as an artist. I am also grateful to my parents who constantly encourage me to pursue my passion and move towards my dreams.

What are your plans after the tour and where do you see yourself in a few years? FLORA. My ultimate dream is to play in Zéniths, at the Olympia, and even in the United States.

The idea of stepping onto these iconic stages fills me with emotion and excitement. Each small step brings me closer to this ambitious dream. Imagining sharing my music with such a large audience motivates me enormously.

In parallel, I plan to continue doing small concerts and developing my musical career. In fact, I can share some scoop with you! My first single will be released on September 6th!

It is titled "Je viens d'ailleurs". It was produced by Norbert Nakach. This is the first time I am talking about it!

This single integrates elements of Bollywood and Sri-Lankan percussion that pay tribute to my roots. I am very excited to share this new step in my career with the people who follow me!

I hope you will like it!