Introduction

Considered as an animation music in funeral wakes, Mbolè has gained immense popularity in recent years. It is now established in the Cameroonian and African musical universe. It is the expression of passion, cultural pride and the history of these young performers.

From Death to Life

A few years after its evolution, mbolè continues to enjoy dazzling success. This traditional Cameroonian music, inseparable from its dance, no longer only enchants funeral wakes, but has spread to weddings, baptisms and other ceremonies. Initially, it was a group of animators improvising texts, and “respondents” who beat time using their hands or utensils of all kinds, pots, spoons or bottles. Two, then three quick claps as a rhythmic base, the respondents set the tempo and resume the songs.

Roots of the Neighbourhood

Always respecting its originality but constantly borrowing from a desire to innovate. The mbolè has gradually become more sophisticated, thanks to the introduction of instruments such as maracas, castanets and the large West African drum, the djembe. However, the one that charms and makes people turn until the end of the night has its origins in the ghetto in the city of Yaoundé. It is in the alleys of the Nkolndongo neighbourhood (neighbourhood of the city of Yaoundé) that the mbolè finds its roots. In 2016, the artist Petit Malo recorded his first hit “Dans mon kwatta” which means “In my neighbourhood”, and denounces the precarious living conditions of this area, where insecurity, poverty and the frustrations of a youth who refuse to be ignored reign.

The Tradition that Moves Borders

The explosion of Mbolè is also thanks to social networks. With flagship titles like “Tchapeu Tchapeu”, “La fille là”, which are going viral. The style has infiltrated playlists and TikTok videos, where young people dance passionately to these frenetic rhythms, creating a buzz that goes beyond borders. Also, the association “Tous en action!” organized the first edition of the Festi Mbolé in November 2024. The said festival aims to offer national visibility to the actors of the movement. By bringing together singers, percussionists and fashion designers, the festival offered performances, discussions on the challenges of the digitalization and dissemination of musical content in Africa.

A Determined Youth for a Better Future

Behind this media success, mbolè remains a versatile form of expression for young people from disadvantaged neighborhoods. The lyrics, in harmony with their life experience, confer a beauty and originality that seduce the hearts of music lovers, arousing new followers among young people and total acceptance in various layers of society.

Conclusion

Today, mbolè represents much more than a simple musical trend, it is a symbol of Cameroonian cultural identity and reflects the community spirit.