TIPTOPSTARS

Achalle, musician

Achalle is the name no young person would afford to forget. Since 2006 when he won the coveted singing competition for emerging talents, “Stars 2 Demain”, the 21-year-old musician has been a source of inspiration to many aspiring Cameroonian artistes. The Douala-based 1.63m-tall musician, from Mamfe in the South West Province talks about himself, his career and projects.

 

Who is Achalle?

I’m the only boy in a Christian family of six, born in Limbe in 1987. I attended secondary and high school in Douala and later went to the University of Buea from where I graduated with a B.Sc in Accountancy.

 

Trace your route to music

I started singing at the age of nine as a chorister, inspired by Whitney Houston, Tevin Campbell and Michael Jackson. But it was not until 2001 that I got into professional singing. While in the university, I did back ups for musicians such as Sammy Diko, Bebey Manga, San Fan Thomas, etc. But my first public outing was on 11 February 2002 in Yaounde when I performed with Richard Bona, my idol.

 

The “Stars 2 Demain” experience

It is an unforgettable experience. That was my dawn. Though it was tedious, I was confident all through and anxious to win the 6 million FCFA price. That made me work harder. However, I think the uniqueness in my voice, eloquence and physical charisma played the trick. My maiden album is also was a major fallout of that competition. I remain indebted to its organisers whom I must thank immensely.

 

Your maiden album

Feelings, my first album is made up of 14 songs. It is a mixture of afro jazz, world music, soul makossa, soul, hip, hip-hop, hop and reggae. All the songs are based on the gospel and song in English, French, pidgin, kenyang and lamnso. The album exploits themes such as the love of God, solidarity, respected.

 

Your relationship with older artistes

They are so warm to me. I have been learning quite much from them. I am particularly indebted to San fan Thomas who let me use his recording studio free of charge, Bebey Manga, Ndedi Dibango and Sammy Diko.

 

Your projects

I’m currently developing a centre, Achalle & Music, where young artists including painters and singers would take lessons. It will eventually be a production house, if I’m supported.

 

Great Moments

• Did anthem for Ebony, a cultural event – S. Africa 2002
•   Took part, with le groupe Macase at the Festival de Bony – Senegal
•  Runner-up, Mitzik national singing competition – 2004
• Winner French Cultural Centres’ Soul Voice competition in 2005
• Winner of  “Stars 2 Demain” in 2006

Achalle has been nominated  for the Kora Awards  un the category best artist Central african Artist
Vote Achalle at  www.koraawards.com   or www.koraawards.org
{gallery}Achalle/{/gallery} Interviewed by Ernest Kanjo