Guinean singer Queen Rima has just won the prestigious Prix Découvertes RFI 2025, crowning her exemplary perseverance after being a finalist in 2022 and 2023. The jury, chaired this year by African music legend Angélique Kidjo, announced their verdict on Monday, February 17, recognizing the talent and determination of this 27-year-old artist who is revolutionizing dancehall codes.
Behind the stage name Queen Rima is Marie Tolno, a young woman from Conakry whose journey perfectly illustrates the saying "third time's a charm." After coming close to victory twice, 2025 finally brings recognition for this pioneer of Guinean dancehall.
Her story is one of successful reinvention. Initially a dancer, she accompanied many renowned Guinean artists like Singleton and Djelika Babintou before founding her own dance group, the Toxaï Girls. It was only about ten years ago that Queen Rima turned to composition and songwriting, developing a unique style that skillfully blends Jamaican dancehall rhythms with Guinean folk influences.
The jury particularly praised her boldness in establishing herself in a musical genre traditionally dominated by men. Despite attempts by those around her to dissuade her, this military daughter showed strong character, refusing to conform to conventions. Her music video "Boss up" demonstrates this desire to overturn stereotypes by featuring four shirtless, muscular men around her, parodying the clichés perpetuated by some rappers.
This determination had already earned her the trophy for best dancehall artist at the Simandou festival in 2017, a first step towards the international recognition that is materializing today.
Beyond her catchy music, Queen Rima stands out for her socially conscious lyrics. Multilingual, she sings in Guinean languages (Pular, Susu) as well as in English and French, carrying a strong message for women's empowerment. In songs like "Game Over" or "Who nha nadakhi," she denounces the inequalities women face, both in daily life and in the music industry, within a still very patriarchal society.
This victory at the Prix Découvertes RFI marks a decisive turning point for the artist, who is currently working on her first album. After acclaimed singles like "Game Over," "Who nha nadakhi," and "Boss up," this recognition should open the doors to an international career.
Queen Rima thus establishes herself as one of the most distinctive voices in the new African dancehall scene. Through her authenticity, incisive flow, and positive energy, she spreads Guinean culture throughout the world, embodying the musical renewal of a continent in creative effervescence.
This award not only celebrates exceptional talent but also exemplary perseverance, making Queen Rima an inspiring model for a whole generation of African artists who dream of international recognition without denying their roots.
