Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Beatrice Manka’a
Published on 2024-03-01 12:18:35
Junior Eyango, a singer and the nephew of Cameroonian music legend Prince Ndedi Eyango, is on a mission to use the Makossa Musiki Awards to breathe new life into Makossa, which he describes as the “ancestor of Cameroonian music.”
The inaugural Makossa Musiki Awards are set to take place from April 7 to 11, 2024. Eyango’s goal with this event is to revive the heritage of Makossa by reconnecting it to its roots and introducing it to new generations and young talents. The theme for the awards is “Makossa: Cameroonian heritage, legacy, and reward.”
Eyango emphasized the need to safeguard the heritage of Makossa in the face of competition from foreign musical styles. He stressed the importance of rebuilding Makossa and celebrating the individuals who have made significant contributions to the genre.
The initiative has gained support from various prominent figures in the Cameroonian music scene, including Prince Ndedi Eyango, who is sponsoring the awards, as well as artists Adrien and Beko Sadey, and Longue Longue, who are part of the organizing committee.
Junior Mbedi, Eyango’s Godfather, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating that it is a good opportunity for all artists to come together and be involved in the revival of Makossa.
The Makossa Musiki Awards not only aim to celebrate the past but also to inspire the future by bridging the gap between different generations. Longue Longue highlighted the lack of recognition for Makossa artists compared to the focus on urban music in the media.
Beko Sadey, a veteran performer, emphasized the importance of elders in moving Makossa forward and providing guidance for the younger generation. She sees herself as a “compass” for the youth, offering them a reference point in the music industry.
The Makossa Musiki Awards represent a critical effort to honor the rich history of Makossa and ensure its legacy for future generations.
Read the original article(French) on Mimi Mefo Info
