We should start by changing the perception that every artist in the diaspora is rich… support should be based on the product not ‘man know man‘ . Nepotism has stopped this industry from growing. – Tuke
THJ: In the last 5 years, the Cameroonian music industry has experienced an influx of upcoming Artists in and out of Cameroon. However, it seems as if the Cameroonian Artists living in Cameroon are acknowledged a lot more than those in the diaspora and are booked for shows to perform abroad frequently, overlooking artists living in the diaspora who do not seem to get as much recognition.
THJ: What is your take on this in general?
Tuke: I mean it could be frustrating, but I understand the dynamic of the ripple effects. The strongest wave is at the center then it spreads, so it’s only natural that artist in Cameroon would be in a position of advantage.
THJ: Do you think Cameroonian artists living in Cameroon are treated more special and given more attention than those in the Diaspora?
Tuke: Most definitely and I am not even saying this in a bad way and even with this the relationship between artists is different than that of the public. I believe my peers respect me because at the end of the day what matters is the music and I’m a dope azz rapper… the real will relate.
Listen to Tuke’s latest song “Dream Chaser” produced by McCoy ‘The Wild Ass Producer’
THJ: What about Cameroonian artists in the diaspora… do you think they are not valued as much as Cameroonian artists living in Cameroon?
Tuke: I don’t know about that. I don’t wait for validation from people. I am confident in my skin, so I barely take notice.
THJ: It would be great if more artists had your type of mentality when it comes to diaspora artists versus home based artists as it would minimize any chances of resentment and tension that may arise.
Related News: What African Countries Can Learn From The Nollywood And Nigerian Music Industry
THJ: How can issue be resolved so that artists in the Diaspora can get the same type of support as those back home?
Tuke: We should start by changing the perception that every artist in the diaspora is rich. Way too often the prices for services offered to us is tripled and support should be based on the product not ‘man know man‘. Nepotism has stopped this industry from growing. Lastly, it’s up to you ‘the media’ to highlight and showcase artists doing good out of the country as people cannot support what they don’t know.
THJ: In reference to showcasing artists doing good outside the country, media outlets can only do so much. If artists don’t send bloggers (as an example of media) information on their work, there’s no way they can find everyone every time, especially those artists who aren’t yet well known. Artists should be pro-active, make themselves known to media outlets and should do their homework to find those ‘media outlets’ that are showcasing various artists regardless of the artist’s “popularity status”.
Who would you compare your musical style to and why?
Tuke: I don’t think I sound like anyone. I compare myself to me, I am my only competition.
