Cameroonian-born and South Africa-based musician Nde Ndifonka also known as Wax Dey has officially released a new single, ‘Makossa’ according to a press statement released in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The statement which was signed by his publicist, Elle Ahanda on October 30, 2014 stated that the single was released to highlight the influence of this underrated genre in today’s international pop culture, and to call attention to the rise of a new breed of Cameroonian musicians.
Also, the statement had it that, Makossa’s impact is still best felt through its contribution to the new African pop sound.
The statement however made references to Shakira’s theme song for the 2010 African Cup of Nations ‘Waka Waka’ stating that the song was an adaptation of the 1983 Cameroonian classic ‘Zangelewa’ that partly has its roots in this genre.
It was stated in the press release that one of the defining moments of global music has to be the 1972 release of Manu Dibango’s Billboard Hot 100 song, ‘Soul Makossa’ that has been credited with the creation of the international ‘DISCO’ sound.
Makossa, according to the release has enabled most Anglophone Cameroonian artistes blend a bit of French and the Cameroonian Pidgin which is quite similar to Nigerian Pidgin.
The music genre which has gained popularity and brought out the creativity among the youth with a modern touch has assured them a place in the social and cultural fabric of Cameroon and Africa which can no longer be usurped.
Nigeria has also adopted the music genre such as transforming the ‘Afrobeat’ of Fela Kuti to the ‘Afrobeats’ sounds that have propelled Nigerian artists such as Iyanya and Flavour into stardom.
The Makossa hit maker, Wax Dey is an activist, writer and singer. He was nominated for Best RnB, Best International Collaboration and Best Male Artiste at the 2012 Cameroon Entertainment Awards (CEA).
Some of Nde Ndifonka’s publications include, ‘The Chosen one’ which was used to teach English in public schools in South Africa. He was also the presenter on Africa Magic Channel’s ‘Good Morning Africa’ show I 2011 before starting his own prime time reality TV show on Canal 2 International in Cameroon. He has also featured alongside 18 African artists on campaigns that aim to rebrand agriculture in Africa.
Listen and enjoy Wax’s Makossa below:
