Cameroon is considered as “Africa in miniature” its true regarding her cultural diversity which is a summary of most African cultures.

With respect to music, I can say “Cameroon is the world in miniature” View some Cameroonian videos .No single brand of music, practiced the world over is a major problem to Cameroonians. Reggae, slows, zouk, R&B, country, Blues, salsa, hip-hop, ndombolo, Couper decale, are just a few examples.

However, the various brands of music originating from Cameroon include; makossa, couper Decale (which is inspired from makossa and mostly sung by Ivorians), Bikutsi (from the center), Njang and Bottle dance (from North west), assiko, and a huge number of local juju dances characterizing cultures.

JUJU DANCES

Variety as said is explained by cultural diversity, instrumentation and accent. The pigmies of the East for instance have their unique brand of music, characterized by a high pitch lead singing voice and other voices answering. They use less modern instruments. Singing and dancing is a popular pastime among the pygmy groups, who gather round fires for many hours at night to enjoy themselves. One feature of pygmy music is to create a melody combining repetitive, rhythmic notes sung by different individuals.

Music from North West such as bottle dance involves sound of bottle, together with drums, bass and acoustic guitar. Dancers take active part in clapping and turning round as the singer demands.

Music from the west usually demands specific attire. Modern instruments are used in combination with Xylophones and the “ndenge”.

Bikutsi from the center involves regular patterned beats with an averagely greater number of notes per bar. Dance styles are original and instrumentation is modern though with much solo guitar.

Makossa from the Littoral is the major brand that gives Cameroonian music a definition. It is modern and easy to dance. Most of the songs have a regular tempo at the start, a slower tempo after the 2nd verse then a climax, making the end even hotter. Couper Decale is another form of makossa and involves more of animation than singing. It is highly cherished worldwide.

The few music brands seen above are internationally known. Manu Dibango, the famous Cameroonian saxophone player has promoted makossa worldwide. Most Cameroonian videos are now done both in the nation and in other countries such that the culture keeps growing.
A variety of music instruments are used in Cameroonian music. It’s the most colourful and rhythmic you will ever find.

CHE ELVIS
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