Bill de Sam, whose real name is Alpha Soumah, is a Guinean artist, activist and politician born in 1968 in Téminétaye. Pioneer of "Mandingo Style", a unique blend of rap and traditional Guinean instruments, he has marked the music scene with acclaimed albums such as "Sogolon", "Exil" and "SIMITI". Alongside his artistic career, Bill de Sam engaged in political activism, founding the Guinean Collective Against Military Power and participating in the FNDC movement.
His career led him to the post of Minister of Culture, Tourism and Crafts in the governments of Mohamed Béavogui and Bernard Goumou, until the dissolution of the latter in February 2024. A committed artist and influential political figure, Bill de Sam embodies the voice of contemporary Guinea.
Introduction
Bill de Sam, whose real name is Alpha Soumah, is a Guinean artist, activist and politician born in 1968 in Téminétaye, in the municipality of Kaloum. His multidimensional journey has shaped his identity, combining his passion for music with a deep social and political commitment. From his debut in rap to his current role as minister, Bill de Sam has left an indelible mark on the Guinean cultural and political scene.
Education
Born in a modest family, Bill de Sam began his primary studies with his uncle in Côte d'Ivoire, before continuing to college on September 28 in Coronthie, where he obtained his BEPC. He then attended high school on 2 October, obtained his Bachelor's degree in social sciences and joined the Julius Nyerere University in Kankan. This is where he obtained his master's degree in Letters, language option, in 1995.
Musical career
In parallel with his studies, Bill de Sam cultivated his passion for rap from high school, participating in inter-school competitions where he became known for his unique style, called "Mandingo Style". In 1990, he recorded his first single, "Guiné Kolo", marking the beginning of a prolific career.
Successes
In July 1996, Bill de Sam released his debut album "Sogolon", skillfully mixing hip-hop rhythms with traditional Guinean instruments. His engaged rap, which he nicknamed "Mandingo Style", quickly conquered the audience with his lyrics denouncing the evils of society. After expanding in West Africa, the artist broadened his horizons with the release of "Exil" in 1999, a collaborative opus with Jean Philippe Rykiel, Manfila Kanté and Tony (N'banaba C.F.A). His third album, "SIMITI" (Saturday in subsu), cemented his status as an indispensable artist.
Discography
- 1996 : Sogolon
- 1999 : Exil
- 2004 : Simiti
Collaborations
Thro his career, Bill de Sam has collaborated with many renowned artists, including R.A.S de Côte d'Ivoire, Positive Black Soûl du Senegal, Jean Philippe Rykiel, Manfila Kanté and Tony (N'banaba C.F.A). These collaborations enriched his style and allowed him to explore new musical dimensions.
Professionnal career
After achieving success in the musical world, Bill de Sam diversified his professional activities. In 2009, he joined the National Tourism Office of Guinea as the head of the Guinea Resa project, aimed at setting up a tourist reservation centre. Subsequently, he held senior positions in various media, including on the Tamata FM radio, in the Ministry of Youth, Youth Employment and Sport, as well as in the Hadafo Media Group and the Guicopres-Guinea Group.
Minister
After the coup d'état of 5 September 2021, Bill de Sam was appointed Minister of Culture, Tourism and Crafts by President Mamadi Doumbouya on 4 November 2021. He was reappointed in this post in the government of Bernard Goumou, until the dissolution of that government on 19 February 2024 by the National Committee of the Assembly for Development. (CNRD).
Activist
Alongside his artistic and political career, Bill de Sam has established himself as a prominent activist. In 2009, he founded the Guinean Collective Against Military Power (CGCPM) to denounce the abuses of Captain Moussa Dadis Camara's junta. More recently, he was one of the first group imprisoned for his opposition to constitutional change in Guinea under President Alpha Condé, as a member of the FNDC Movement.
Awards and recognitions
Thro his career, Bill de Sam has been praised for his artistic and social commitment. Although the exact details of his awards are not mentioned, his lasting impact on the Guinean cultural and political scene testifies to the recognition he enjoys from his peers and the public.
Conclusion
Bill de Sam is an emblematic figure of contemporary Guinea, having left an indelible mark in the fields of music, activism and politics. His inspiring career, which began with his passion for rap, led him to become an influential spokesman for social causes and a key actor on the political scene. Whether on stage or in institutions, Bill de Sam has demonstrated his unwavering commitment to his country and his people, embodying the very essence of a committed artist and a visionary leader.
