Based in Sweden , Demba Conta is now trying to explore the music scene in his native country. Unlike before, the reggae star Demba Conta now visits The Gambia frequently. Already his new single which talks about the need for repatriation is gradually becoming a hit.
Onegambia which is out to promote and expose every Gambian artist met the reggae star and in this interview he talks a lot about his music.
Now you come very frequently to The Gambia , what is responsible for this?
This is what everybody is asking me. I met the Gambian president and he suggested the need for me to be around always and see how best to develop the music. Initially my problem was, I lack the support to enable me to contribute towards the industry. I am busy currently working on modalities with the president to start a recording studio.
When do we expect this studio?
It's a huge project. It involves lot of millions. We want to make it international. The technicians I contacted are not rushing it, because they too want to maintain their reputation.
How can this studio help Gambian music?
It can help a lot; it will uplift the talents. My involvement will help a lot because of my connection. We need world renowned producers and composers here. The studio will also help in encouraging big stars to come and record here. My wife is a music coach. She coach musicians like how the football coach, coach players in the field. It's also going to promote our culture and tourism. My wife can search talents here and develop them to be world stars and gain international contracts.
Are you Swedish?
Yes, I lived in Sweden for nearly thirty three years. I once traveled to the Bahamas and my bag containing my Gambian passport was stolen. I suffered a lot and this forced me to get Swedish papers.
Are you still active in music?
Yes, I am. I am working on my fifth album. Music is what I make my living. It's my profession. I focus on the outside market more, because of the piracy here. It's not encouraging here, because people make many out of your works and you don't make a single penny.
Who are your audience?
In Sweden it's the white people. About ninety percent of my fans are whites.
You worked with the popular Jamaican producers Sly Dunbar and Robbie Lyn.
Yes, for my second and third album. Sly is like a teacher to me, he taught me lot of things in the music. He is very incredible not only as a drummer. The only thing he didn't teach me is how to play an instrument.
Did you ever travel to Jamaica ?
Almost every year I visit Jamaica . I go there to visit friends like Sly.
Why do you play strictly reggae?
It is the music that is easier to listen to by us Africans. It talks about our problems. Besides, reggae has lot of similarities with ndaga and sewruba . The dances are almost the same.
What happened to your dreadlocks?
I removed every thing late last year. It is something that is best when you are a youth and creativity has nothing to do with dreadlocks. I am not a Rasta but a Muslim. I strongly believe in Islam.
In which part of Sweden are you best known?
Southern Sweden . I spent lot of time in Malmo . I am just ten years old in Stockholm . I started my music career in Malmo . It's the place that developed me.
As a black musician how do you protect black interest in Europe ?
I protect humanity in general. I see myself as someone who connects people. I have encountered racism several times. What I used to say is do to people what you would like others to do on to you.
Do you have your own label?
For the last twenty years I had the Yin Yang Records, which is own by me and my wife.
Did you ever produce any musician?
I am producing my wife's coming album. I have produced Luther Martin from Uganda , he plays R&B and another Swedish girl called Rebecca.
