France, April 26 -- The 28-year-old French-Malian pop star dominated the awards in Paris, winning female artist of the year, pop album of the year and international star of the year.

"I'm very honoured," she said holding one of the trophies. "Being a female artist, and what's more a black artist, and coming from the banlieues (suburbs) is very difficult."

She dedicated the awards "to all the blacks, to all the girls that are watching me" and thanked her fans for "the love and messages of support, despite the controversy and criticism".

Racism row Nakamura found herself in the midst of a racism row in February after rumours circulated she had discussed singing an Edith Piaf song at the upcoming Paris Olympics during a meeting with Presi...