Cameroonian singer Mr. Leo (real name: Fonyuy Leonard Nsohburinka) recently appeared on the BBC podcast TIA to discuss his upcoming album, “Good Vibes,” which he believes offers a much-needed message of positivity in these challenging times.
The 14-song album, set for release this month, reflects the everyday struggles people face, according to Mr. Leo. He acknowledges the personal impact of the Anglophone conflict, which has inspired some of the album’s themes.
“They are tailored to make people believe that when there is life, there is hope,” he said. “And since they still breathe, there is nothing worth trying.”
Mr. Leo himself has been displaced from Buea to Douala due to the conflict, and he has also lost loved ones to the violence. While some expect him to speak out directly against the conflict as an artist, he finds this a delicate situation.
One song, “All the Way Up,” encourages listeners to persevere: “Don’t give up,” he urges. “Make moves and don’t be afraid to try. Even if you fail, you should try again until you get it. You only fail when you don’t give it a try.”
Another track, “Ayele,” promotes kindness: “Someone can get up and be having a bad day,” Mr. Leo says, “and by saying hi, you can put a smile on a person’s face.”
He emphasizes the role of music in finding his voice in the midst of the crisis: “We’re not politicians; we don’t have seats in power, but we do have the power of our voice, and the least I can do is use my voice to talk through one or two of my songs,” he told the BBC.
The nearness of death has instilled a deeper appreciation for life in Mr. Leo: “Life is really short, and nobody knows when they are going to die,” he said. “This makes me value my time more, and it makes me want to do something as an artist.”
Mr. Leo also shared his unexpected journey into music on the podcast. He initially joined his school choir to impress a girl, but singing unexpectedly ignited a passion within him. Despite his father’s initial disapproval and desire for him to pursue a career in science, Mr. Leo’s love for music prevailed.
His dedication paid off. In 2015, his single “E Go Beta” propelled him to fame, solidifying Mr. Leo as a prominent voice in Cameroonian music.
