Roger Essama Bekono: Pioneering Bikutsi Icon
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Roger Essama Bekono, born on June 15, 1954, in Atéga, Cameroon, left an indelible mark on the music scene with his innovative approach to bikutsi, a traditional Cameroonian genre. His journey into music began in the mid-1970s when he abandoned his secondary studies in Yaoundé to pursue his passion for music full-time.
Bekono’s early compositions, such as “Bòngo Ya Cameron,” showcased his unique blend of foreign influences, incorporating elements of French flavor and Rumba while singing in his native Ewondo language. This distinctive style garnered attention, laying the groundwork for his future success.
The 1980s marked a significant turning point for bikutsi, with emerging artists gaining international visibility. In 1984, Bekono released his debut project, “Oget Mongi,” which quickly gained traction with the lead single “Ngon Nnam” dominating the airwaves in Cameroon’s capital. Bekono’s rising popularity led to invitations to radio shows and performances in clubs and cabarets across Yaoundé.
Continuing his momentum, Bekono released “Assiko 100,000 Watts” in 1987, which further solidified his status as a bikutsi sensation. The album’s tracks, including “Biza” and the title track, received widespread radio play, propelling Bekono to new heights of fame and success.
In 1989, Bekono achieved a breakthrough with the release of “Jolie Poupée” on the Inter Diffusion System label. The album’s title track became a national sensation, dominating radio, discos, and television. Its popularity extended beyond Cameroon’s borders, captivating audiences in Central African countries like Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Republic of Congo, and Sao Tome & Principe.
The four songs on “Jolie Poupée” are hailed as bikutsi classics, cementing Bekono’s legacy as a pioneering figure in the genre. His innovative approach to music and enduring impact continue to resonate with audiences, making him a revered icon in Cameroonian music history.
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