- Describe your sound in three words please!
Roots – Fusion – Jazz.
- Your latest project ‘Cameroon Everlasting’ is an homage to Cameroonian Classics. How did you come up with the idea and how easy was it to bring it to life?
Cameroon is nicknamed “Africa in miniature” or « Little Africa »! It is a summary of this continent on every level. In other words, everything you find on the African continent, is to be found in Cameroon. This country is a microcosm of African rhythms and melodies. I wanted to give out to the world this universal perspective. ‘Cameroon Everlasting’ took me a long time because the original music had to be presented to the public in a suave and universal manner. I had to make proper arrangements and choose the right musicians for better rendering.
- What characterises the Cameroonian heritage for you?
Musical rhythms and sounds in Cameroon change from one region to another. This country is a mosaic of people, tradition, and culture. This unique cosmopolitan energy has somehow built my musical identity
- You live in France, but you maintain your connection with Cameroon. What is the one thing that you can’t stand in each country and what is the one thing that you love them for?
I cannot stand racism in France, and I cannot stand tribalism in Cameroon. I love France for its taste for art, and I love Cameroon for the human warmth of its people.
- What would you respond to those who say that Jazz music as a genre is a bit elitist?
Jazz is not popular enough, so it is not accessible to the public. It is true that Jazz requires an effort to listen to, and I think those who say it is elitist do not want to make this little effort. On the other hand, I think that if Jazz music were as promoted in the media as other music, it would have a lot more followers.
- What is your favourite album of the past year?
Pat Metheny’s album “From This Place”
- What is the most useless talent you have?
I know how to move my right ear
- Tell us something that most people do not know about you.
Most people do not know I have a degree in computer engineering.
Thank You!
Secret Eclectic 