Lila Downs

 Lila Downs, born in Oaxaca, Mexico, is the daughter of Mixtec singer Anita Sanchez and Allen Downs, a Scottish-American art professor and filmmaker. She grew up in Oaxaca, California, and Minnesota and graduated from the University of Minnesota in voice and an anthropology degree. Her musical style is anthropological and is as diverse as the many old and ancient cultures she continues to be guided and inspired by. Downs is usually accompanied on her musical journey by her longtime band, La Misteriosa, multi-cultural multi-instrumentalists who include Paul Cohen, her collaborator, producer, and husband.The topic of her music is often political and social justice, immigration, and transformation, all rooted in the human condition. She strives to make a meaningful connection with her many fans through her music and performances.For over a decade, Lila Downs has traversed the globe, performing her dramatic and distinctive re-imagining of traditional Mexican music and original compositions fused with blues, jazz soul, African root, and even klezmer music that all complement her stunning voice. Although Lila is considered a Mexican artist by many, it's difficult to categorize her music as such.