Guitarist, composer, painter, and craftsman, Prosh’Ely has pursued a career for over six decades, guided by passion and the preservation of Malagasy musical identity.
Malagasy music is more than just a sequence of notes. For Noasy Prosper Elie, better known by his stage name Prosh’Ely, it is primarily a story of transmission, emotion, and identity. After more than sixty years in the industry, the artist continues to uphold 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 a family of artists. His father played several instruments, and their home was filled with music. From a young age, he discovered the piano, harmony, marovany, and valiha before developing a passion for the electric guitar, which gained popularity in the 1960s. He began performing as a child alongside his brother, participated in festivities on October 14th and August 15th, and launched his solo career in the early 1970s.
As a composer, lead guitarist, arranger, and accompanist, Prosh’Ely has contributed to the creation of numerous works in the Malagasy repertoire.
Considered by many music lovers as the “King of Kaiamba,” he also founded the group Kaiamba, which included Oza Gérôme, Jean Kely Basth, Coco Tavaratra, Christin, and Dada.
He estimates that about 80% of the records released during a certain era feature his musical contributions. He has collaborated with artists such as Dedesse, Feon’Ala, Jean Freddy, and many others. His personal repertoire now includes over a hundred songs.
Today, he continues his journey with his group, Prosh’Ely, featuring Jackie Edmée (vocals), Pascal (drums), Haja (keyboards), Frank (bass), and vocalists Jojo Mananjary, Rose Monde, Julien Raminia, and Charles Martin, while he handles vocals and guitar. The group will embark on its first tour in Antananarivo this August before continuing projects in other regions.
His style draws inspiration from old songs, traditional theater, and emotionally charged melodies. “I love songs that tell a story and touch the heart. That is the emotion I seek to convey in my guitar playing,” he says. For him, melody is always born from feeling and the power of the narrative.
Beyond music, art plays an essential role in his life. He creates paintings, portraits, landscapes, and sculptures, designs album covers, crafts musical instruments, and teaches the craft. “It is a talent God gave me. Despite the difficulties, I continue to create,” he affirms.
Captured & Published at: 2026-07-13 21:48:47 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/07/portrait-proshely-un-virtuose.html