Discovering Dani Bumba: A Journey Through His Artistic Vision
MUSICIAN BASED IN PARIS
THE READERS
Having had the privilege of meeting Dani Bumba on several occasions through mutual friends, I always knew he possessed a remarkable talent as a singer.
However, it wasn't until his EP "L'Amour" that I took the time to truly delve into his music.
"L'Amour" is more than just an album; it is a therapeutic project that serves as an invitation to men to openly express their emotions, embrace vulnerability, and break free from the confines of cultural norms and gender stereotypes.
As a lover of words and sounds, Dani Bumba effortlessly weaves together his skills as both a musician and a poet. Hailing from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), he brings forth a unique blend of French variety, American soul, and Congolese music in his compositions.
Coming from a family of artists, Dani Bumba's artistic universe is infused with a distinct essence, reflecting his heritage and personal experiences.
His music possesses a captivating charm that resonates with audiences, and he continues to leave his mark on the ever-evolving French music scene.
Today we have the incredible opportunity to dive deep into Dani's artistic journey, exploring the literary influences that underlie her music. Join me for an illuminating conversation with the talented artist that is Dani Bumba.
Can you tell us about a specific piece of literature that has had a significant influence on your music?
Several books have forged me as an artist and continue to do so, but to name a few there are:
"The autobiography of Malcolm X" as told to Alex Haley
"Notebook of a Return to My Native Land" by Aimé Césaire.
These two books are among the ones that forged me because I admire the way in which we discover the author, the evolution of his emotions, rather than the artistic work only.
In my reading process, in addition to the key theme, I like to know a little more about the author, his emotions, his view on life.
That's also how I carefully build my songs, I reveal myself in them.
Staying alert to the social issues of humanity is also one of my aspirations, so reading the writings of great people, such as those mentioned above, in addition to marveling, it inspires me and gives impetus to my personal vision.
Can you share with us some of your favorite literary works, and explain how they have impacted you as an artist?
First, "The Fire next time" and "Another Country" by James Baldwin. What I love about Baldwin's writing, especially "The Fire next time" which I know well, is the way it oscillates between strength and gentleness, it's rhythmic, it's popular and refined writing.As an artist, I try to write things that have meaning, rhythm, emotion, painting pictures with words. In that sense, Baldwin inspires me a lot.
Also "L'aventure ambiguë" by Cheikh Hamidou Kane a strong and beautiful novel that delves into the intricate and demanding task of navigating cultural disparities and preserving one's sense of self. The novel has left a deep impression on me due to its profound meaning, stirring emotional content, and rhythmic prose.
Last one, "I know why the caged bird sings" by Maya Angelou.
These are some of the books that inspire me as an artist to strive for beauty, intensity and authenticity.
Do you find that there are certain themes or motifs in literature that you are particularly drawn to, and that you try to incorporate into your music?
Les thèmes de lecture qui me touchent particulièrement sont ceux qui font attrait aux faits de société, l’(es) Histoire(s) noire(s), la poésie, le surréalisme, la spiritualité et les autobiographies. Ce sont aussi des thèmes que j’explore à travers mon art.
Beaucoup d’auteurs, et artistes, qui m’inspirent ont ces thèmes en commun et ont la particularité de me faire me poser des questions sur moi-même.
Et pour citer Nina Simone,
“An artist's duty, as far as I'm concerned, is to reflect the times.”
C’est aussi ce que je pense et essaie de faire avec mon art, chanter ce que je vois de la plus belle façon possible. La lecture nourrit directement mon art sur tous les points de vue.
Are there any specific writers or authors who have been particularly influential in shaping your artistic vision?
Bell Hooks « A propos d’amour » « La volonté de changer »
Olympe Bhély-Quenum « l’initié »
Frantz Fanon « Peaux noires masques blancs » & « Les damnés de la terre »
Maryse Conde « Mets et merveilles »
Mohamed Mbougar Sarr « La plus secrète mémoire des hommes »
David Diop « Coups de pilon »
Alice Walker « La couleur pourpre »