The Inspiring Cameroon Artist Bringing the Joy and Beauty of Moghamo Music to the World Stage. Dr Okwen
Dr Okwen, a talented singer, songwriter, multi-Instrumentalist and a producer hailing from Cameroon, is making waves in the music industry with his powerful message of hope and perseverance. After pursuing a highly successful career as a dentist in America, Dr. Okwen has embarked on a journey of self actualisation as a music artist, aiming to inspire and share the joy and beauty of his heritage through his enchanting Moghamo music.
Born and raised in Cameroon, Dr. Okwen was always deeply connected to his cultural roots and had a passion for music from a young age. However, he chose to pursue a career in dentistry, driven by his desire to make a difference in people’s lives and contribute to society. Driven by his strong work ethic and determination, he achieved remarkable success as a dentist in America, establishing himself as a respected professional in the field.
In this exclusive interview with Salam Damola, we delve into the story of this Africa artist turned global sensation, as he shares the drive behind his music, his vision, unwavering determination to make a difference through his music and projecting African culture to the world;
Can you tell us about your journey from being a highly successful dentist and microsurgeon to becoming a music artist? What inspired you to pursue a career in music?
I have always played music from when I was 13. My father plays and actually composed many songs. We would usually play in the evening around the fireside while my mom was cooking dinner. My mom and 8 of us siblings would sing and use spoons and pots to accompany my Dad.
As someone who debuted as a music artist later in life, what challenges did you face in transitioning from your previous careers to the world of music? How did you overcome those challenges?
The one challenge I face is that I cannot always dance as I used to dance 4 hours non-stop.
Your debut music is known for its powerful message of hope and perseverance. Could you share some insights into the inspiration behind your lyrics and the themes you explore in your song?
This song I dedicate to my son, Fon. Fon is autistic and has improved in communication since his diagnosis. My father used the words in calling for help from the lord in difficult times and always found a way.
What has been the response from your fans and the wider music community to your music and your unique journey as an artist? Has it been what you expected?
The fans have responded even more than I expected
Are there any artists or musicians who have influenced your musical style or have had a significant impact on your own artistry?
My father is probably my biggest influence
How do you incorporate your heritage into your music? Can you talk about the significance of moghamo music in relation to your cultural background?
Moghamo music is interesting in that it is a big part of life. There is a music style for every occasion. There is a music genre for birthday celebration, one for death celebration, one for harvest thanksgiving, one for puberty, one for menopause, one for hunting, wartime music, farming music, Alarms and notification etc. Very interesting indeed.
Can you tell us about your journey as a multi-instrumentalist? Which instruments do you play, and which one is your favourite?
I play the instruments my father plays and a few more. I play the Guitar, Tikwen, Violin, Kora, piano and Anuh. My favorite is the Guitar and Anuh.
How do you stay motivated and inspired to create music while also maintaining your dental practice?
Music inspiration comes at any time so I have a protools studio in my Clinic and one at home.
How do you approach the creative process when writing and producing your music? Do you have any particular rituals or sources of inspiration that you rely on?
When the inspiration comes I usually write or record the lyrics or vocal melody then later on I can add the instruments and do the arrangement. Everything follows the lyrics although as an instrumentalist sometimes you discover a very unique leak that you have to build a song around.
How do you balance your artistic pursuits with your other responsibilities and commitments in life? How do you find time and energy for both your music and your dental profession?
It is what it is. I just keep working on the long term mission I have for the world, especially Africa.
What has been the most rewarding moment of your music career so far? Is there a specific experience or achievement that stands out to you?
My most rewarding moment is when I heard some kids singing “Nwa Kwa” on Wazobia very well without even having the written lyrics of the song.
Are there any specific messages or themes that you aim to convey through your music? What kind of emotions or messages do you aim to evoke in your listener and how do you ensure that your audience connects with those messages?
The mission of my music is to develop mental unity in Africa. And mark this, I am saying it as the first person to conceive, plan and execute this strategy. When I was 10 years old, my brother Ralph who loved reggae music started telling me about African unity and I would counter with the fact that I did not want Africa to be one country. I felt then and now that if Africans could unite mentally they would be a force that no other group of humans or aliens can challenge. I introduced the concept of Mental unity for Africans. We always debated with Ralph. I believed that if Africa unites to be one country we would only have one vote at the UN and other international organizations which would be a fatal weakness. However if we can unite mentally, then we can draw our own boundaries ourselves without war. We would also form new autonomous geographical unions that would not owe the debts that the irresponsible colonial agents that represent the present geographical autonomies have acquired. You see, nobody gives you independence, you take it. The colonial aggressors left Africa with their agents in power and military agreements that kept them militarily ahead of us. They also left us with geographical autonomies that are extremely polar and unstable hence the wars from which they benefit. I can go on and on and on, but one thing I know is that when Africans can tolerate each other’s language, culture they will have a softer spot for each other and be able to reconcile mental differences that would in turn lead to the pride of our continent which I call the Source Continent. So if you don’t remember anything please remember Mental Unity and Source Continent.
As an artist with a diverse skill set, what advice would you give to aspiring musicians who want to explore multiple disciplines and those who think it’s too late to pursue their passion in music?
Keep working, it’s never too late and most importantly, BE ORIGINAL.
In your opinion, what is the role of music in inspiring and uplifting people, particularly during challenging times? How do you believe your music contributes to this?
Music is the strongest human force after sexual forces. Imagine the internet with no music, the national anthem with no music, television with no music, your phone with no music, your church with no music. My music is a starting source of inspiration for Autistic Children, their parents, families and friends.
What are your future goals and aspirations as an artist? Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations that you are excited about?
I have 52 songs and only 2 are out. I will be making and producing music till I die. I would like collaborations with an artist like Asake, Burna Boy, Shina Peters and a couple of other great guys flying the Africa flag. My second song is out Acha New.
Finally, is there any message or piece of advice you would like to share with your fans and the broader community?
I would like for my fans and the Source Continent to know that the world depends on us for their prosperity and power and therefore it is time to recognize and use each other’s strength.
