The Event and Its Objectives
On June 21, a thought-provoking conference titled ‘Congolese Music Amidst International Demands’ took place at the French Institute of Congo in Pointe-Noire. This initiative, led by Prescom Media and its director Gildas Bakala, aimed to arm local artists, managers, and producers with the necessary tools for achieving international acclaim. These yearly gatherings coincide with the celebration of World Music Day, offering valuable insights before the night concludes with a grand concert at Canal Olympia Mpita.
Insights from Industry Experts
The discussion panel featured renowned figures such as Charlemagne Mayassi, a cultural manager and producer, Jean-Marc Bissila, known as Marcus, an entrepreneur and sound technician, and William Kinfoussia, CEO of Wilkai. Their collective wisdom emphasized that perseverance and skill development are crucial for artists to navigate the highly competitive international arena. According to Mayassi, only those with undeniable talent and exceptional creations manage to stand out and thrive globally.
Bissila advocated for artists to seek continuous learning and performance enhancement by maintaining humility and connecting with established predecessors in the field. Meanwhile, Kinfoussia highlighted the importance of monetization strategies for artists, stressing that while platforms like YouTube offer visibility, they don’t necessarily translate to financial success.
Addressing Educational Gaps
One of the recurring challenges discussed was the lack of formal training opportunities, apart from institutions like the Ecole nationale des beaux-arts in Brazzaville. The speakers urged young artists to embrace constructive criticism and gravitate towards networks and professional art organizations. Participation in festivals and conferences was recommended as a vital avenue for growth and exposure.
Paving the Path Forward
The conference underscored the necessity for artists to unite as professional syndicates capable of advocating effectively to policymakers. The integration of regulatory frameworks could potentially elevate the status of their profession. As the music industry in Congo continues to evolve, artists are encouraged to forge cooperative platforms that can advance their collective interest and ensure sustainable progress.