Momo Wandel Soumah (1926-2003) was a legendary Guinean singer, composer and saxophonist recognizable for his iconic raque voice. A pioneer of the fusion of African musical traditions and jazz, he embodied the evolution of Guinean music in the 20th century, from colonial dance orchestras to regional Orchestras promoting cultural "authenticity" under the regime of Sékou Touré.
His unique style mixing with maestria traditional rhythms and jazz made him a cult, as evidenced by his acclaimed albums Matchowé and Afro Swing. Until his death in 2003, Soumah remained a prolific artist and a respected mentor, passing on his rich musical legacy to younger generations.
Introduction
Momo Wandel Soumah was one of the greatest Guinean musicians of the 20th century. Recognizable for his iconic raque voice, he has shaped his country’s musical landscape by skillfully merging traditional African sounds with classical jazz. His musical journey traces the evolution of Guinean music, from colonial dancing orchestras to regional Orchestras carrying cultural authenticity. This biography explores the life and lasting legacy of this respected artist.
Childhood
Born in 1926 in the provincial town of Labé, Guinea, Momo Wandel Soumah grew up in an environment rich in musical traditions. From an early age, he was immersed in the enchanting rhythms of local singing and percussion. Although his family was not musical, Soumah quickly developed a deep love for music, seizing every opportunity to attend the musical gatherings of his village.
Carrier start
In 1947, then employed as manager of Labé's post office, Soumah began to engage seriously in music. He learned to play several traditional instruments, including banjo and mandolin. In 1951, he moved to Conakry, the capital, where he joined the dance orchestra La Joviale Symphony. This was where he discovered the saxophone, which would become his favorite instrument.
Musical career
After Guinea's independence in 1958, Soumah had to adapt to the political and cultural changes launched by President Ahmed Sékou Touré. The latter initiated a "cultural revolution" aimed at promoting "authentically" Guinean music, rather than imitating foreign styles. Soumah then joined the new orchestras created to support the program, such as the famous Keletigui and its Tambourins.
It was in the 1980s, after the fall of the Touré regime, that Soumah really found his unique voice. While many artists opted for commercial pop, he developed a distinctive style merging Guinean musical traditions with jazz. His band, the Wandel Sextet, became a cult thanks to his humorous and idiosyncratic interpretations of jazz tinted with African sounds.
Discography
Although Soumah has recorded throughout his career, his most acclaimed albums are:
- Matchowé (1992)
- Afro Swing (2001)
- Momo Le Doyen (Original Sound Track, 2007)
He has also contributed to world music compilations, such as "Unwired: Africa" (2000) and "Desert Blues 2". (2002).
Awards and recognitions
Despite his undeniable talent, Soumah was not widely recognized on the international stage until the end of his life. During the last five years, his career has been revived through touring and greater media exposure. Unfortunately, he died suddenly on 15 June 2003 in Conakry, shortly after returning from a tour in Belgium.
Legacy
The influence of Momo Wandel Soumah on Guinean music is undeniable. By brilliantly merging African traditions and jazz, he has created a unique style that has inspired generations of musicians. His humility, dedication to his art and sense of humor have made him a respected mentor, constantly attracting apprentices eager to learn from his wisdom.
As the Malian historian Amadou Hampâté Bâ said, "In Africa's mostly oral cultures, the loss of every old man is the same as the burning of a library." So the disappearance of Soumah represents a considerable loss for Guinea's musical heritage.
Conclusion
Momo Wandel Soumah was a true national treasure of Guinea. His journey summarizes the evolution of Guinean music, from colonial dance orchestras to innovative mergers combining ancestral sounds and modern jazz. With his characteristic gravel voice and unique style, he has left an indelible mark on the African and world music scene. His legacy continues through the many musicians he has inspired and trained, ensuring that his music will continue to be celebrated for generations.
