He is nicknamed the spiritual son of Alpha Blondy because, in a short time, Tiken Jah Fakoly has managed to make a name for himself on the international scene. He has become a reference in engaged music. Coming from Ivory Coast, he now floods the reggae market, primarily reaching the youth but also, above all, those who were fed up with French-speaking reggae where marijuana was the only source of inspiration. Democracy, peace, anti-colonialism — three key words in the life of Doumbia Moussa Fakoly, his real name.
## A Meteoric Rise.
It all begins in 1987, in Ivory Coast. Tiken Jah performs on some stages with his first group Djelys. Very quickly, he feels concerned by the social and political evolution of his country and wishes to “awaken consciences”. It is in 1993 that Tiken Jah Fakoly truly becomes a recognized artist in Ivory Coast, at a time when the political situation is confused. He takes advantage of this moment to convey a message that resonates with the youth. In 1996, he releases his most famous album, which has become a classic: “Mangercratie.” He first encounters France on stage in Paris in 1998. The supreme reward in 2003: he wins a Victoire de la Musique award for his album “Françafrique.” Far from being satisfied with this victory, Tiken Jah Fakoly continues his commitment against misery and oppression.
Today, Tiken Jah stands as a reference. It is therefore no coincidence that many collaborations are to his credit. Dub Incorporation, Bernard Lavilliers, Steel Pulse and recently, with the rapper Soprano, on the track “Ouvrez les frontières.” An artist who should, therefore, set the Lino Ventura Theater on fire.
