Interview with Djama Keita
37 year-old multi-talented author, songwriter & musician — from the island of Martinique
“I COME FROM A POWERFUL & BEAUTIFUL KINGDOM”
Djama Keita is the name given to me by my parents. Djama means the one who brings people together and Keita refers to the Emperor of Mali called Sounjata Keita. They gave me that name for me to remember that I come from a powerful and beautiful kingdom that people called Africa.
A SINGING LANGUAGE FULL OF IMAGERY
CREOLE
“It gives me the opportunity to express my thoughts more easily and more directly”
It is also a way to communicate better with my people from Haiti, Dominica, St Lucia, Guyana, Réunion Island and Guadeloupe. Creole also uses some words that remind us of our African Heritage
20 YEARS
IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY
How hard is it to be recognised as a reggae or dancehall artist and export your music when coming from the French West Indies?
It is very difficult because of the French colonial system in place and the pressure of politicians who want to see us stay in a “captured land” (like Chronix says) of Martinique in a global plan of “devil-up-men” (development…).
“The media still continues to broadcast all kinds of music that stops us from elevating our minds”
“I do not like injustice , oppression and liars”
MY MESSAGE
TO THE FUTURE GENERATION
“In my songs I want the people to find some strength, love and positivity, because music has the power to make us feel good and to change people’s minds”
“LOVE & POSITIVITY”
My message to the future generation is to continually seek Jah love , to be confident in themselves, respect themselves, fight for equal rights and justice on earth, to give, keep the faith in everything you do and put the spirit of Jah first whether you are Black, White, Brown or Yellow, whether you are rich or poor:
“Let the Most High lead your way!!”
KEEP THE GUIDANCE
“Guidance” is a title to help people stay focused on their objectives
It was released in Martinique, the mix was done in Jamaica and the video was shot in Dominica.
“That is the perfect example of the collaboration we hope to see in the Caribbean”
HIS INFLUENCES..
“I am very interested in all forms of artistic expression from all over the world”
..from jazz, rnb, soul music to reagge as well as ethnic vibes, drums from Senegal & Ethiopian music
I also enjoy listening to Indian meditation music and symphonic orchestration.
STAY TUNED
There are a lot of projects in the pipeline: a single in collaboration with a Jamaican “riddim-maker” & Live shows coming soon.
“Real big up to the KRIBBEAN team & readers!”
More than a place.. a way of living!
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