The young Cameroonian artiste living in Canada, Kenzo Versatile who released his album of 10 tracks ‘Rap Decalé’ tells us more about himself in an interview with Culturebene.
Qtn: Hi Versatile Kenzo, thank you for granting this interview with culturebene.com. In a few words, can you introduce yourself to our readers?
Hello to you and your many surfers. I am a young Canadian based Cameroonian artiste, born February 2, 1988 in Yaoundé, Cameroon. Both my father and mother are Ewondos. My mother migrated to Quebec, Canada in 1997 while my sister and I followed later in 2000.
Qtn: How did you start music? Tell us about your beginnings.
My beginnings are similar to those of the great artistes. I started singing in choirs and playing percussion to accompany the singers. Once in Quebec, Canada I was enamored with French rap and I joined a group called ‘Section King- Force’. We participated in many shows and contests like ‘Hip-Hop forever’ among others.
Qtn: You released an album of 10 tracks a few months ago; how has it been welcomed by the Cameroonian public?
My album is the result of a long and laborious work. Overall, it was well received by the Cameroonian public during my stay in Cameroon for its promotion. I want to say that I was pleased with the collaboration of the team I found in Cameroon.
Qtn: Canadian rapper of Cameroonian origin, how are you perceived at that side? As an African - Canadian artiste, or just as a Canadian artist?
I consider myself as a world artiste, as I touch a diverse audience (all origins combined).
Qtn: In this album of 10 tracks, you chose to highlight ‘Rap decalé’. Why this choice?
Why ‘Rap decalé’? It’s just because I spent twelve years of my childhood in Africa precisely Cameroon, and the rest of North America (Canada). Rap to support my future futuristic generation ... Shifted to entertain and ambiance from the values and gifts of my own and natural.
Qtn: And can you present to us in a few words what the album is about?
The ten (10) tracks each have a specific and significant meaning.
- Rap- Offset: an inspiration on experiences and transmitted through this melody full of hope that gives life and symbolizes the light.
- Think about your dreams, regardless of the circumstances of life, we can get to achieve our goals and objectives, armed only with the faith and will
- The voice timbre and melody that I use to properly convey my message.
- I think of the future: it includes the revelation of my faith and my determination to become a better being. It has timbre voice and melody that I use to properly convey my message.
- I think the future: the revelation of my faith and my determination to become a better being.
- Sending: a track composed by Kenzo Versatile and sung by MTB (born singer Burundi). This melody is similar to that of Division 2 of the album.
- Tell them is a song initiated to restore hope to the future generation. Believe in yourself, because you are capable of great achievements.
- Rest in peace: a tribute song to my best friend who left me here 5 years ago. His name is Max Mukandila from Congo, Brazzaville). Rest in peace.
- Pride: Also says humility is a great virtue that many people should incorporate as a lifestyle.
- D.d.décalé: rhythm in the image of celebration and rejoicing. For those who like to ‘enjailler’, this track is for you.
- We still talk about it: this track tells us of many mysteries still to discover.
Qtn: What is the theme that you used in this album?
The belief in our values.
Qtn: What is your perception about Cameroonian music?
A rich and varied music.
Qtn: What is your relationship like with Cameroonian artistes such as Veeby, Just One, Yann NZ who are also living in Canada.
I gain a lot to know them, and if possible work with them in the near future.
Qtn: Aside music what other jobs do you do?
I'm part of a humanitarian organization called Health Domain which supports the elderly who are in the last phase of earthly life.
Qtn: If there is a Cameroonian artiste you’d like to feature, who will it be and why?
2 Espo Benz because of our similar thinking and approach to life.
Qtn: How do you like to dress?
Classical, modern and traditional.
Qtn: What is your girl style?
Ambitious, gentle and maternal (capable of caring for a home).
Qtn: A message to your fans?
These are my experiences that have made me what I am. Thank you for always supporting me in the most difficult and important moments of my journey. Your advice and encouragement have developed in me this great faith and determination in the right way and perseverance.
