Ivorian Reggae star Tiken Jah Fakoly, deeply frustrated with the treatment he receives during his concerts in Côte d’Ivoire, shares his thoughts with the Ivorian authorities.
The legendary Ivorian Reggae artist, Tiken Jah Fakoly, who recently returned from an international tour comprising 90 concerts in Canada, is set to perform two consecutive concerts on Wednesday, December 6th, and Friday, December 8th, at the Lougah François Hall of the Bernard B. Dadié Cultural Center in Treichville and at the Agora of Koumassi starting at 7 PM. Prior to these events, he was invited to the “Show Buzz” show, broadcasted on the Nouvelle Chaine Ivoirienne (NCI) on Monday, December 4th, 2023, to provide information about his upcoming performances.
Known for his outspoken nature, Tiken Jah Fakoly, after the screening of a video showcasing the warm welcome he received upon arriving at Port-Bouët airport, criticized the Ivorian authorities. “I have never received any honors or decorations in my country. I don’t have any particular statement to make about this situation, nor do I have any requests. However, I believe that these things should happen automatically based on what an artist or an individual contributes to their country. (…) I have a successful career today, and I have nothing to envy. Someone who performs 90 concerts in such a short period, touring everywhere and earning the respect of the audience, I think that’s the best decoration. Maybe one day it will come, but when things are natural, it’s better,” he said.
To conclude his remarks, he expressed his outrage at how politicians treat African Reggae artists. “There are several challenges to overcome for African Reggae because we have never received the Grammy Awards. Personally, I have received the Victoires de la Musique, which is the highest distinction one can receive in France, equivalent to the Grammy Awards in the United States. I believe we should strive to achieve this goal and position our Reggae at the same level as Jamaican Reggae. Our Reggae is well-respected, as I often meet Jamaicans on tours where I am often the headliner. (…) Reggae is neglected, I wouldn’t say fought against, but people don’t like the message of Reggae,” he regrets. He continues, “In fact, they like Reggae when they are in opposition, for example, but once they are in power, they no longer like it. However, the message of Reggae must not change. Since the days of Bob Marley, Reggae has been the voice of the voiceless and has decided to take a stance for the people. But it’s not surprising because even during Bob Marley’s lifetime, he was not decorated in Jamaica because Reggae is a music of counter-power. Reggae has always had issues with those in power, but I believe we should follow the path that has been laid out,” Tiken Jah Fakoly declared.
As a reminder, Tiken Jah Fakoly is one of the Ivorian Reggae artists who honor Côte d’Ivoire internationally, much like Alpha Blondy. His songs, appreciated by Reggae enthusiasts, are highly conscious, even if they are not pleasing to some African leaders.
