Levi Bobo, whose real name is Tahirou Somparé, is an acclaimed Guinean artist and singer who revolutionized the music scene of his native country. Born in Conakry, he began his career as a street dancer before embarking on professional music in 2011 with the release of his first successful album, "Bobo". Since then, Levi Bobo has established itself as a cultural icon thanks to its unique blend of traditional Guinean sounds and contemporary influences, captivating millions of fans around the world.
With three albums at his disposal, national and international tours, the creation of his own production house Kakande Production, as well as numerous prestigious awards, this talented and visionary artist has succeeded in promoting Guinea’s rich musical heritage on the world stage.
Introduction
In the dynamic world of Guinean music, a name shines with a special glow - Levi Bobo. Born Tahirou Somparé, this talented artist has travelled a unique path, brilliantly merging the traditional sounds of his home country with contemporary musical influences. With a series of critically acclaimed albums and international recognition, Levi Bobo has established itself as a true icon of the Guinea music scene. Her captivating journey from street dancer to superstar testifies to the power of talent, hard work and determination.
Childhood and Education
Raised in a modest home in Conakry, the capital of Guinea, Levi Bobo developed from a young age a passion for dance and music. Her first stages on the artistic path were marked by her integration into the dance group "Les Génies de Matam" in the mid-1990s. It was in the lively streets of his hometown that he began to express his talent, captivating passers with his energetic movements and his natural scenic presence.
Carrier start
In 1998, Levi Bobo made a crucial milestone in his musical journey by learning to play the Gongoma, a traditional Guinean instrument. This new competence opened the door to collaborations with renowned artists, including the late Bouba Rasta, on several of his songs. This experience was a tremendous milestone for Levi Bobo, refining his talent and making himself known in the music industry.
Musical Career and Success
The year 2003 marked a turning point in Levi Bobo's career. Her captivating appearance in the video clip for "Legué Légué Faré", a hit by artist Doudou Benny, attracted the attention of the public and industry. However, it was not until September 23, 2011 that Levi Bobo truly emerged as a solo artist, with the release of his first album, "Bobo". Produced by Mohamed Coker and recorded at Alphonse's studio in Coléah, with arrangements by Mohamed Sandaly, this album of 12 songs was a real success in Guinea.
The unique blend of local languages, traditional music from the Soussou and Mandingue cultures, and contemporary influences has attracted millions of fans and earned the respect of industry professionals. Thanks to this album, Levi Bobo began performing on European scenes, captivating music enthusiasts in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and France.
Discography
Albums
- "Bobo" (2011)
- "Gbalangbalan" (2015)
- "Papaa" (2019)
Singles
- "Afonissiré"
- "Djanfa Guigol"
- "Mourtinan" (feat. Mariama Kankalabé)
Collaborations et Featurings
- Collaborations avec Bouba Rasta
- "Mourtinan" (feat. Mariama Kankalabé)
Tours
After the shocking success of his first album, Levi Bobo embarked on a series of national and international tours, performing in front of enthusiastic crowds. His energetic and captivating performances have delighted fans in Guinea, but also in other countries in West Africa, as well as in Europe.
Levi Bobo has conquered the hearts of music lovers around the world, offering unforgettable performances where his talent as a singer, dancer and showman has flourished. His tours have been a powerful way to promote the rich Guinean culture and share his passion for music with an international audience.
Entrepreneur
Beyond his brilliant musical career, Levi Bobo has also demonstrated a remarkable entrepreneurial spirit. In 2020, he founded Kakande Production, his own production and event home. This visionary venture aims to promote Guinean music and provide a platform for emerging talent.
Under the banner of Kakande Production, Levi Bobo not only produced his own music, but also provided a springboard for promising young artists. His studio has become a real creep of creativity, attracting trained musicians eager to make their mark on the Guinea music scene.
In addition, Kakande Production has organized large-scale events, celebrating the cultural wealth of Guinea and offering an exceptional showcase to local artists. These events have helped to strengthen the Guinean musical scene and to draw the world's attention to the country's outstanding talents.
Awards and Recognition
Levi Bobo’s undeniable talent and dedication to promoting Guinean music have not gone unnoticed. During the 2018-2019 season, he was awarded three prestigious trophies in Europe, confirming his status as a rising star.
First, he was awarded the "Best Guinean Artist 2018-2019" award by Bill Production. Camara Production then awarded him the "Best Guinean Artist 2018-2020" trophy. Finally, Levi Bobo was honoured with the "Best Consumed Guinean Artist in Europe" award by T&C, a renowned cultural agency specializing in the promotion of African music, that of Guinea.
These awards highlighted Levi Bobo's considerable impact on the international music scene and strengthened his reputation as an ambassador of Guinean culture around the world.
Private life
Despite his international fame, Levi Bobo remained attached to his family roots in Guinea. He is married and father of several children, and attaches great importance to the balance between his professional and personal life.
Controversy
In 2021, Levi Bobo found himself at the heart of a controversy related to his musical collaboration with the famous singer Mariama Kankalabé. Their single "Mourtinan", a love ballad to the test, sparked rumors and speculation about a possible love relationship between the two artists.
However, Levi Bobo and Mariama Kankalabé strongly denied these rumors, claiming that their relationship was purely professional and based on deep mutual respect. They explained that their collaboration was simply aimed at creating an authentic work of art, celebrating the love and culture of Guinea.
Despite controversy, the video clip for "Mourtinan" was a huge success, highlighting Mariama Kankalabé's acting talents and the palpable chemistry between the two artists. This controversy only reinforced Levi Bobo's aura as an engaged artist, able to transcend rumors and focus on his art.
Conclusion
The journey of Levi Bobo is a true epic, a testimony to the power of talent, hard work and perseverance. From a street dancer to a superstar of Guinean music, her journey has been marked by outstanding successes, exciting collaborations and well-deserved international recognition.
With its unique blend of traditional sounds and contemporary influences, Levi Bobo has captivated millions of fans around the world, becoming a true ambassador of Guinea’s rich culture. Her undeniable talent, combined with her visionary entrepreneurial spirit, make her a model for aspiring young artists.
As Levi Bobo continues his brilliant ascension, there is no doubt that his footprint on the Guinean and international music scene will only expand. Its unwavering dedication to its art and to the promotion of its cultural heritage make it a true source of inspiration for present and future generations.
