LOCKO : A VOICE TO THE SOUL

Locko, whose real name is Charles Arthur Locko Samba, is a Cameroonian singer, songwriter, and producer. He was born on May 8, 1992, in Yaoundé, Cameroon. He originates from the Littoral region but is based in Yaoundé. Locko developed a passion for music at a young age and began singing in his church choir. He even began playing the guitar at a young age with his uncle. After he obtained his GCE A-Levels, he intergrated École nationale supérieure Polytechnique de Yaoundé.

In 2010, he created his YouTube channel in which he used it to do covers of popular songs by African artists like Maitre Gims, Flavour, Singuila, Stanley Enow and Duc-Z.

In 2014, Locko gained recognition after participating in the music competition show “Mutzig Star” in Cameroon. He finished as the first runner-up, which opened doors for his music career. He released his first single “Perfect Girl” in a collaboration with singer Numerica then, he later on released his debut single titled “Margo” in 2015, which became a hit in Cameroon and established him as a rising star in the music industry.

Locko’s musical style is a blend of Afropop, R&B, and Afrobeat. His smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics have resonated with audiences across Africa and beyond. He has collaborated with several renowned artists, including Tayc, Singuila, Shado Chris and Stanley Enow.

Over the years, Locko has released numerous successful singles and albums. Some of his popular songs include “Sawa Romance”, “Katana”, “Ndutu” “Thank You Lord” and “Danse Avec Moi”. His music often explores themes of love, relationships, and personal growth.

In 2017, he took part in the Coke Studio Africa 2017 show in Nairobi, sponsored this year by American singer Jason Derulo, alongside artists Youssoupha, Kiff No Beat, Shado Chris and Ozane. He is the second Cameroonian artist, after the group X-Maleya in 2016, to be invited to take part in this prestigious pan-African show. He also performs comedies with several actors and comedians.

Locko has received several accolades for his musical contributions. He has won awards such as Best Male Artist at the Balafon Music Awards, Best Francophone Artist at the African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMMA), Best Male Urban Music Artist or Group at the Canal 2’Or and many other awards.

With his wonderful talent and dedication to his craft, Locko continues to make an impact in the Cameroonian and African music scene as a whole. He remains an influential figure in Cameroonian music and is admired for his soulful voice and captivating performances.

Delia Nyadi