Sunday, April 20

Cameroon has produced a rich tapestry of musical talent, blending traditional rhythms with modern styles like Afrobeats, Makossa, Bikutsi, jazz, and hip hop. Here’s a list of popular Cameroonian musicians, both legendary and current:


Legendary & Influential Musicians

NameGenreNotes
Manu DibangoJazz, Funk, MakossaIconic saxophonist; known for “Soul Makossa” (sampled by Michael Jackson, Rihanna)
Francis BebeyFolk, Electronic, ClassicalPioneer of African electronic music & storytelling
Eboa LotinMakossaKnown for soulful vocals and gospel-influenced Makossa
Anne-Marie NziéBikutsiThe “Queen of Bikutsi”; symbol of traditional Cameroonian music
Richard BonaJazz, Afro-fusionGrammy-nominated bassist/singer; internationally acclaimed
Lapiro de MbangaProtest musicCritic of politics through music; imprisoned for his activism

Modern & Popular Artists (Africa/Global)

NameGenreNotes
Charlotte DipandaAfro-pop, AcousticPowerful voice, sings in French & Douala; pan-African fan base
DaphneAfropop, R&BKnown for the hit “Calée”; smooth, melodic style
Stanley EnowHip hop, AfropopKnown for “Hein Père”, international collabs with Ice Prince & Davido
Blanche BaillyAfropop, UrbanPopular in West/Central Africa; bilingual lyrics and catchy beats
MimieAfropop, R&BRising star with hits like “Ten Ten”, collaborations with top names
Mr. LeoAfropop, SoulKnown for “E go Beta”, signature smooth vocals and uplifting lyrics
SalatielAfropop, ProducerFeatured on Beyoncé’s The Lion King: The Gift album; also a top producer
LockoR&B, AfropopKnown for romantic ballads and vocal talent; sings in French and English

Popular Traditional Styles from Cameroon

  • Makossa – Urban dance music with Congolese & jazz influences
  • Bikutsi – Percussive, high-energy music from the Beti people
  • Assiko – Traditional music with guitar & percussion, often storytelling-based
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