Emerging Cameroon: Skxnnx

In Russia, Skxnnx released a number of singles, including ‘ERA’, ‘What’s Poppin’ and ‘Wi Ma Broz’. Following a brief hiatus, he co-founded the Glizzy Gang with Nigerian rapper Rain Of Asini, before going on to release solo projects like ‘Upthemundo’ and ‘Ctrl Mundo’.

His latest release, ‘Trouble Kid’, delves into themes of youth and rebellion, drawing from personal experiences to resonate with listeners.

The artist recently spoke to Music In Africa as part of our Emerging series highlighting exciting new talent from the continent about his creative process, an upcoming EP, and more.

MUSIC IN AFRICA: Growing up in Cameroon, what were some of your earliest musical influences, and how did they shape your passion for music?

SKXNNX: I was heavily influenced by Makossa, a local genre led by international figures like Manu Dibango, Richard Bona, and Petit Pays. Growing up, I fell in love with hip hop because it fits the spirit of rebellion and non-conformism that drives me.

What inspired your decision to leave Cameroon and pursue your aspirations in Russia? Can you walk us through that pivotal moment in your life?

My decision to leave Cameroon was fuelled by the understanding that the social and economic situation there wasn’t aligned with my vision. After university, I tried different approaches to achieve success. I launched an online shopping store, played in a few local movies, and made a few records, but none matched my expectations. The environment was not favourable for me to express myself as I wanted.

Your latest single, ‘Trouble Kid’, delves into themes of youth and rebellion. What personal experiences or observations inspired you to explore such themes?

We live in an era of mass control, where governments establish laws and programmes to mould consciences as they wish, with the primary goal of keeping the majority in ignorance and servitude. As soon as you start to think differently from the masses, you are labelled a failure. It takes courage and self-sacrifice to choose your path despite preconceived ideas. These sounds are for all souls who seek their paths and use their differences as a strength.

As an artist based in Moscow, what has been your experience navigating the music scene there, especially as someone with a unique cultural background?

Moscow is a cosmopolitan city with various cultures, and the music scene is also composed of different genres, led by rap music.

Who are some of the artists that inspire you?

Kid Cudi, Young Thug, Travis Scott, Playboi Carti, and I will add Kanye West for his entrepreneurial spirit.

How do you approach collaboration compared to solo projects?

I approach both with the same mindset: giving my best and putting my feelings into the beat. This is what I always do.

What do you hope listeners take away from your music, especially from tracks like ‘Trouble Kid’? Is there a specific message or emotion you aim to evoke?

I aim to share my emotions and my story with my audience. Music is the easiest way to express my inner self. The message behind ‘Trouble Kid’ is: “Don’t let anyone define who you are or try to change who you are to fit a certain standard. Confidence and dedication are the keys to success.

What goes into your creative process when crafting a new song?

My process is very spontaneous. I listen to beats until one of them evokes something in me, and then I express myself on the beat by freestyling and having fun. I don’t write lyrics because it kills the spontaneous feeling of the creative process.

Looking ahead, what can fans expect from you?

I am constantly discovering myself and my potential. I will continue to release music to share with my audience and I am planning to release an EP this year.