TILLA TAFARI: GOD MOTHER OF 237 HIP HOP MUSIC

Tilla Tafari, whose real name is Bongkiya Venagesho Lantum Bertilla, is a Cameroonian rap artist. She gained recognition in the Cameroonian music industry with her unique blend of Afro-pop, R&B, and traditional Cameroonian sounds.

Tilla Tafari’s passion for music began at a young age, and she started singing and writing songs in her teenage years. She drew inspiration from a diverse range of musical genres, including jazz, soul, and traditional Cameroonian music, from her family. Her musical style reflects her cultural heritage and incorporates elements of the rich Cameroonian music tradition. Her musical mentors will include; Bob Marley, Lauryn Hill, Missy Eliot, Beyonce, Asa and Eve.

In 2013, Tilla Tafari started performing in street rap battles. She also featured in several mixtapes, headed by Afropop artist Daddy Cool. In 2014 rose to prominence with her breakout single, “Alhadji” under the record label BBOY Records headed by Magasco and it actually became a hit in Cameroon and garnered significant attention. The song showcased her powerful vocals, captivating stage presence, and ability to fuse different musical influences.

Her debut EP, contained 5 tracks and titled “The Godmother” which also featured Dancehall artist Magasco on the 2nd track of the EP titled “My Kingdom”. He also featured on other singles like “Kumba Market” and “No No”. Tilla later on featured in Jovi’s remix of the song “Et Puis Quoi”, alongside Teddy Doherty, Inna Money, Zayox, Pascal, Mic Monsta and Dareal. She later on joined the music record label “New Bell Music”, headed by Jovi, where she featured in the “Lord Have Mercy” compilation EP alongside Reniss, Shey, Pascal and Jovi.

After several singles, Eps, and albums, she decided to open her own record label and she named it “God Mother Sound” where she also released several singles like; “Back to square one”, “Girls U Nova Ndem”, “Dope”, “Understanding” ft Chuzih and many others.
She joined another record label “The Dedes Records”, where she released several other tracks like; “Ola Olé” “Ghana Must Go” ft Groovie Selecta and later dropped from the record label to focus on her own label.

She has released other tracks like; “Bad Boys 2.0”, “Gang”, “Mumu”, “Unconditional Love”, “Fire Burn Them” amongst others.
Tilla Tafari’s music often addresses social issues, love, and empowerment. She uses her platform to advocate for positive change and to promote Cameroonian culture and identity.

Throughout her career, Tilla Tafari has collaborated with various Cameroonian and African artists, including the likes of Magasco, Mr. Leo, Jovi, Locko, and many others. These collaborations have further expanded her reach and helped to solidify her presence in the African music scene.

Tilla has performed at major events and festivals in Cameroon and other African countries. She has been recognized for her talent and contributions to Cameroonian music, receiving nominations and awards at various music award shows, as she won the NBACA Award for Best Female Artist.
Social media recently reveals her heated conflict with renowned Cameroonian rapper Askia.

Tilla was born on January 26th 1991, in Bamenda, Northwest region of Cameroon. She hails from two tribes actually known as “Banso” and “Nkambe” all located in the Northwest region, Cameroon.
Tilla Tafari aka Godmother Don Dada, is still firmly rooted into the music world and she keeps captivating audiences with her unique style and powerful performances. She remains a prominent figure in the Cameroonian music industry, and her future endeavours are highly anticipated.

Delia Nyadi.