Amira Kheir releasing new album Black Diamonds in UK jazz scene

Amira Kheir, the Sudanese-Italian singer, has recently unveiled her fourth full-length album, Black Diamonds, which stands as her most intimate and significant work yet. This album serves as a tribute to her Sudanese roots and represents a culmination of her distinctive blend of musical genres, which she has been honing since her debut album, View From Somewhere. Kheir’s music effortlessly merges jazz, soul, rock, and desert blues, creating a harmonious blend that is deeply rooted in tradition while embracing the future.

The release of Black Diamonds holds immense personal significance for Kheir, as it symbolizes her profound exploration of her connection to her Sudanese and African ancestors. She delves into themes of heritage, identity, and the interwoven relationship between the present and the past. BBC World News has acclaimed Kheir as the ‘diva of the Sudanese desert’, acknowledging her captivating performances and the loyal fanbase she has garnered since bursting onto the music scene in 2011.

Kheir draws inspiration from a diverse array of artists, citing influential figures such as Prince, Aretha Franklin, Cassandra Wilson, Anita Baker, Meshell Ndegeocello, and Sudanese musicians like Abdel Aziz Mohamed Daoud and Hanan al-Neel. In her latest album, Kheir draws upon these influences as she embarks on a reflective journey, pondering her personal growth and evolution while paying homage to the rich cultural heritage that has shaped her artistic identity.

The album’s lead single, ‘Sudani’, pays homage to Sudan and its people, serving as a heartfelt homage to the nation’s storied history and promising future. Tracks like ‘River’ showcase Kheir’s soulful vocals in English set against a backdrop of mesmerizing synth textures and funky guitar riffs. Throughout Black Diamonds, Kheir seamlessly transitions between Arabic, English, and Italian, encapsulating the breadth of her multicultural influences.

Listeners are treated to Kheir’s most sincere and introspective work yet across the nine tracks that make up Black Diamonds. The album showcases her artistic maturity and willingness to experiment with new sounds and styles. Standout tracks like ‘Ti Sento (I hear you)’ highlight Kheir’s vocal prowess, while ‘Sid Redi (The One I Adore)’ showcases exquisite oud playing.

Black Diamonds is a must-listen for fans of innovative blends of African and Western musical elements. Whether familiar with Kheir’s discography or discovering her music for the first time, this album offers a captivating entry point into her sonic universe. Scheduled for release on October 10, 2025, via Sterns Music, Black Diamonds promises to be a transformative musical experience for all who listen.