There is a persistent phenomenon in Cameroon at the moment. It is a man who goes by the alias Nyangono du Sud. This is an artist’s name that we come across quite often. If this one is not a harbinger of devastating talent, one can at least hope for average performances. But no!

The Nyangono of the South, an affable and prosperous trader, sings as badly as a drunken sailor. He readily admits it. His thing is entertainment. Haranguing the crowds, making them drunk with happiness in front of a dissonant melody and articulate lyrics. Inconceivable for purists! But in Cameroon, Nyangono du Sud has been the star for a few weeks. Everyone is clamouring for him. Both at prestigious events attended by the First Lady of his country and in front of the customers of his cheap kitchenware shop.

His ‘artistic’ form of expression (a misnomer perhaps) does not match that of Usher a few years ago or Salif Keïta vocally. But Nyangono is a modern-day Michael Jackson, both in his choice of stage costumes and in his speech to the media. With modesty under his feet, the current star believes that he is not comparable to some artists (including real ones).

In spite of this, the “pretension” that some are reproached with is what makes him so appealing to his fans. It’s hard to take him seriously when he talks about his fame, his musical success and his achievements. On the contrary, his fans laugh but say they love him. The antics pay off. And our “artist” has understood this. However, he is aware, I’m sure, that it will only last as long as the buzz. That’s why he’s taking advantage of it.

He has not forgotten the criticism he received a few years ago when he took the stage at a ceremony attended by the First Lady of Cameroon, Chantal Biya. He was called names. The organisers were cursed for inviting such a bad singer in front of respectable people. The same audience called for him two years later at the same biennial ceremony.

Nor have they forgotten the scandal caused by a daring poster announcing the release of his album. The concept of “Bearded Hole” had caused a stir. It seems that he has been looking for buzz for a very long time.

Amnesiac public? No. Nyangono du Sud is not talented. Everyone knows that. But he has been discovered to have a funny, but above all endearing side. He is an accessible man, close to his audience, who arrives where he is expected with statements that are as funny as each other. Not exactly spoiled by nature, Nyangono du Sud looks like the average person. He has the repartee of a news clown and laughs at negative comments about him.