Guitarist, composer, painter and craftsman, Prosh'Ely has pursued a career spanning over six decades guided by passion and the preservation of Malagasy musical identity.
Malagasy music is not merely a succession of notes. For Noasy Prosper Elie, better known by his stage name Prosh'Ely, it is above all a matter of transmission, emotion and identity. After more than sixty years of career, the artist continues to defend a vision faithful to the country's cultural roots, while remaining open to innovation.
Originally from Vangaindrano in the Atsimo-Atsinanana region, Prosh'Ely grew up in an artistic family. His father played several instruments and the house was filled with musical instruments. From an early age, he discovered piano, harmony, marovany and valiha before becoming passionate about electric guitar, popularized in the 1960s. He took the stage as a child alongside his brother, participated in performances organized for the October 14 and August 15 festivities, then launched his solo career in the early 1970s.
As composer, solo guitarist, arranger and accompanist, Prosh'Ely participated in the creation of numerous works in the Malagasy repertoire.
Considered by many music lovers as the "king of Kaiamba," he also founded the Kaiamba group, composed of Oza Gérôme, Jean Kely Basth, Coco Tavaratra, Christin and Dada, all Malagasy artists.
He estimates that approximately 80 percent of records published during a certain era bear his musical contribution. He notably collaborated with Dedesse, Feon'Ala, Jean Freddy and many others. Among the titles he contributed to are Tsaiky-be Malakilaky, Ambila zaho, Raozy vao maraina and Mila rano. His personal repertoire now includes more than a hundred songs.
Today, he continues his journey with his group Prosh'Ely, bringing together Jackie Edmée (vocals), Pascal (drums), Haja (keyboards), Frank (bass), Jojo Mananjary, Rose Monde, Julien Raminia and Charles Martin on vocals, while he himself handles vocals and guitar. This formation will undertake its first tour in Antananarivo in August, before continuing its projects in the regions.
His style draws inspiration from old songs, traditional theater and melodies steeped in emotion. "I love songs that tell a story and touch the heart. It is this emotion that I seek to convey in my guitar playing," he confides. For him, melody always emerges from feeling and the power of the narrative.
Beyond music, art holds an essential place in his life. He creates paintings, portraits, landscapes and sculptures, designs album covers, crafts musical instruments and also teaches this art. "It is a talent that God gave me. Despite the difficulties, I continue to create," he affirms.