By Lawrence Fahnwi
Yaoundé – Cameroon, Oku star D. Brain has released an official music video “njaŋ chin ɛykuo” on YouTube on February 2nd, 2024. “Njaŋ chin ɛykuo” was released.
D. Brain of the Brain Empire is a passionate artist from Cameroon with 14 years of experience in music and a cinematographer with extensive industry experience, training, and proven success in cinematography and the entertainment industry in Cameroon. Adept at overseeing all aspects of film production. Enthusiastic and committed to creating thought and emotion-provoking Music. Started writing songs in primary 6. Recorded his first song corruption in 2008.Album of six songs in 2009 featuring Phase B. Album of 5 tracks in 2013, a couple of singles between 2013-2022 and has graced so many stages with performances. Then an album of tittle ancestral rap in 2023 with music videos. Like Manjong, “Oku boy” and “Nokang” which was denounced by the kwifon of Oku. It was in 2023 that he was called by the ancestors as a cultural messenger to focus on cultural music, hence representing his culture on the globe.
Pan African Visions caught up with D. Brain and had this interview.
May we know what your new video release is all about?
My new release is titled njaŋ chin ɛykuo. This is part one of a tribute song to some fallen heroes in Oku.
What prompted you to come out with this music at this time?
Community and Supporters: The local community, as well as supporters and allies of the fallen heroes, can be an important audience for a tribute song. The song can help foster a sense of unity and solidarity within the community.
What audience is the music destined for?
First and foremost, the families, friends, close relations to all the fallen heroes of Oku. The song is also dedicating for anyone who can relate with the experience of watching a hero in their family leave to the land of no return. This dedication is not an avenue solely focused on rehashing or opening old wounds, we celebrate their passing away as redemptive. We revisit them to appreciate and give an opportunity for the present generation to emulate good deeds from the past. The significance of their sacrifices is remembered and celebrated. All in all, the dead are not dead.
We understand the video has been released a few days ago, any feedback you have received from viewers so far?
The reaction (comments, calls and text messages) from the Oku community (at home and in diaspora), artist and the public has been very positive. Evidence can be seen in the comments and views on YouTube.
What is your take on the present state of music in Cameroon?
The music industry in Cameroon, including cultural music, has been experiencing growth and evolution in recent years. There has been increased recognition and appreciation for Cameroonian artists and genres both locally and internationally. Cultural music, which includes traditional genres like Makossa, Bikutsi, and other traditional rhythms, continues to play a significant role in the country's music scene.
Cameroonian artists have been gaining more visibility on the global stage, with collaborations with international artists and performances at major music festivals. Additionally, the rise of digital platforms has provided new opportunities for artists to reach wider audiences and promote their music.
Despite these positive developments, challenges such as piracy, limited infrastructure, and lack of adequate support systems for artists still exist in the industry. More efforts are needed to address these challenges and further promote and support the diverse cultural music scene in Cameroon.
Overall, the present state of the music industry in Cameroon, including cultural music, reflects a dynamic and vibrant landscape with opportunities for growth and continued impact on the global music scene.
Where can viewers watch the newly released video?
The music can be watched on the YouTube website.
The cultural music of the Oku land in Cameroon is truly mesmerizing, reflecting the rich heritage and traditions of the community. It’s a beautiful expression of their identity and history, captivating listeners with its vibrant rhythms and soulful melodies.
D Brain knows how well to represent this aspect of the land.
Kudos ???? bro