Dive into the heart of Yaoundé, Cameroon with Roos’ty’s latest musical masterpiece, "Nyango". This captivating song, brought to life by the blind Cameroonian artist Roos’ty, takes listeners on a sonic journey through the bustling streets of the city, blending local culture with universal themes.
Watch the Music Video: Nyango by Roos'ty
In the local dialect of Yaoundé, "Nyango" means "woman". Roos’ty’s song cleverly plays on this word, intertwining it with "Yango", the name of a popular local taxi service that could be described as a scruffy version of Uber. These beat-up Toyota Yaris cars navigate the city's chaotic traffic jams and endure its numerous, unforgiving potholes. With no city buses available, Yangos and the omnipresent shared yellow taxis are the lifeline of inner-city transport.
The Realities of Yaoundé’s Transport
Traveling in Yaoundé is a unique experience. Change is a rare commodity, and even when available, it’s often withheld in hopes of getting more. This leads to the widespread use of mobile money services like MTN and Orange Money for payments. The concept of seatbelts is almost non-existent in these vehicles, adding to the adventurous spirit of every ride.
Musical Excellence
Adding a layer of sophistication to this track is the Grammy award-winning artist Chris Potter, who plays the bass clarinet. His contribution elevates "Nyango" with a rich, soulful depth that complements Roos’ty’s unique sound.
Final Thoughts
Roos’ty’s "Nyango" is more than just a song; it’s a vibrant portrayal of life in Yaoundé, filled with cultural nuances and everyday challenges. Through his music, Roos’ty provides a lens into the spirited resilience and creativity of Cameroonian life. Don’t miss out on this evocative musical journey.