MAITRE GIMS : AN IMAGE IN FRENCH RAP

Maitre Gims, whose real name is Gandhi Alimasi Djuna, is a French-Congolese singer, rapper, and songwriter. He gained popularity as a member of the French rap group Sexion d’Assaut before embarking on a successful solo career.

Maitre Gims grew up in both Congo and France, and his music reflects influences from both cultures. He developed a passion for music at a young age and began writing and performing his own songs. In 2002, he co-founded the rap group Sexion d’Assaut alongside his childhood friends. The group gained recognition in the French hip-hop scene and released several successful albums, including; “L’Ecrasement de tête” (2009), “L’École des Points Vitaux” (2010), “L’Apogée” (2012) amongst others.

In 2013, Maitre Gims launched his solo career with the release of his debut album, “Subliminal”, which achieved significant commercial success. The album featured hit singles such as “J’me tire”, “Bella”, “Freedom”, “La Chute”, “Épuisé” and many others, which topped the charts in France and other French-speaking countries. His unique blend of rap, pop, and R&B, accompanied by his distinct voice, garnered him a wide fan base.

He followed up with his second solo album, “Mon cœur avait raison”, in 2015, which further solidified his status as a solo artist. The album showcased his versatility as he explored different musical styles and collaborations. Maitre Gims has collaborated with various international artists, including Sia, Pitbull, Sting, Stromae, Lil Wayne and many others, further expanding his reach beyond the French music scene.

During his solo career, he released several other albums like; “Ceinture Noire” (2018), “Le Fléau” (2020), “Les Dernières volontés de Mozart” (2022) and many others. He has as well released several tracks especially his latest track for 2023 entitled “Malembe” ft Maes a French rapper.

Throughout his career, Maitre Gims has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to music. He has been recognized for his song writing, vocal abilities, and his ability to fuse different genres together. He has received several awards like; “Victoires de la Musique” due to the song “Sapés Comme Jamais”, also won “Most Viewed French Music Video on the internet” at the “W9 d’Or de la musique and has earned several others.  His music often addresses personal experiences, relationships, and social issues, resonating with a diverse audience.

In addition to his music career, Maitre Gims is known for his distinctive style, often sporting sunglasses and colourful outfits. He has also ventured into other creative endeavours, including fashion and philanthropy.

Aside from his music career, he did a documentary about the last ten years of his music career, entitled “Gims: On the Record” in 2020.

In 2022, he played the song “Arhbo” for the 2022 FIFA World Cup along with Ozuna, which they also performed during the closing ceremony

Gims was born on May 6, 1986, in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo. He comes from a family of musicians. His father, Djanana Djuna is the singer of Papa Wemba’s “Viva La Musica” troupe. His brother to renowned artist “Dadju”.

Maitre Gims’ success as both a member of Sexion d’Assaut and as a solo artist has solidified his position as one of the prominent figures in French music. With his unique sound, charismatic presence, and cross-cultural appeal, he continues to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impact on the music industry.

Delia Nyadi