Doumbia Moussa Fakoly, best known in the music scene as Tiken Jah Fakoly, is one of the legends of reggae music in Ivory Coast and in Africa. Combining his captivating reggae beat with uncompromising lyrics, Fakoly became a spokesperson for the people of his generation, denouncing the many injustices done to the people of his country and Africans in general, as well as calling for a political, economic and cultural renaissance in Africa. When you listen to Tiken’s music carefully, you can feel his mastery in the art of reggae music.
An authentic entertainer, we give Tiken credit for his brilliant ability to win audiences over with his energy and charisma on the live scene. But the reggae star did not limit himself to putting his musical talents to good use. He became more than just an entertainer, he became an activist; using the music platform to speak for the oppressed. If you know Fakoly’s music, you would agree that his message has remained constant through the years: exposing the many injustices African people have been subjected to and inviting both African leaders and the people of Africa to spur change. His desire to speak – or should I say sing – to promote justice saw Tiken becoming a popular feature at music festivals both within and outside his own country – either using these platforms or the profits they bring to advance a good cause. You would think that after almost 3 decades of a very active music career he would slow down – he’s not about to! Last week-end, he was one of the main artists who offered their talents at the Amani Festival, in Goma, eastern DR Congo – to try and change the story of a country stalled by war and to give residents hope for peace. His heart for people vastly explains why Tiken Jah Fakoly is today a highly renowned artist throughout the world. Many Africans connect with his lyrics at a deeper level and are proud to call him their own.
In today’s edition of Big Up Africa, we are also proud to celebrate this legend of the African reggae music!
Below is the video of his song “Dernier Appel”, which is French for “Last Call”, and is also the title of his latest album. Enjoy!