Yusupha Ngum, previously known as Jollof Man, is undoubtedly becoming The Gambia's hottest mbalax star. Son of a renowned Senegambian musician Musa Ngum, Yusupha was born in The Gambia but spent a great part of his childhood days in Senegal . In 1998 he returned back to The Gambia and stormed the music scene with the formation of the Galaxy Crew. This group gained great popularity, until recently when Yusupha took up a solo career.
The young mbalax star's debut solo album is making big waves in both The Gambia and Senegal . His clips are frequently featured on the national TVs of the two countries.
Why solo career?
The reason why I did so is simply because we have reached a stage were The Gambia needs to show what they have and what they can do. Rap is no longer becoming a popular music here. For seven years, I and my colleagues have been doing rap; we have now taken a new direction geared towards improving ourselves.
Don't you think some fans of Galaxy Crew will label you as a betrayer?
It's not a betrayal. In music we don't see such a move as a betrayal. Rap, salsa, mbalax are all music. Music is about fulfilling the wish of the people. Rap like I said earlier is not popular compared to mbalax.
What's the relationship like between you and your fellow vocalists in Galaxy Crew?
Perfect! Mad Dragon has traveled to Swiss and Micky is still around. When ever the people need us we will make ourselves available.
How was your debut album in the market?
It was a big success
What's the secret behind your success?
Thanks to the effort of my father. It's because of him that's why I enjoy all the respect in Senegal and The Gambia. I am not the eldest of my father's children but I am the eldest in the music scene.
Tell us few things you copied from your father?
My father writes his own songs and he does the arrangements for himself. I also have these qualities in me and I want to believe I inherited it.
You father can't dance. What about you?
Some people say I can't dance. I will have to train, because I need to perform to the maximum wish of my fans.
It seems you spend lot of money on promo clips.?
Clips are important. It adequately promotes you and your music.
You are married now. Don't you think it's too early?
I need to protect myself and getting married has helped me a lot. We all know musicians are hot cakes for girls, but as individuals we must avoid anything that can ruin our future. I really thank God for marrying early; it has helped me a lot and I have no regrets for it. Getting married early is required of all Muslims and it helps a lot when planning our lives.
How do you handle being a father, husband and musician?
My family is first. If you have a happy family you enjoy every thing in life. I always thank my wife for offering me my first child. This really great and she deserves every thing from me. Whenever I see my child, it brings great happiness in me, even were I am angry.
If you have the opportunity to perform abroad which country will you prefer?
England . Many musicians are what they are today because of British support.
What special role does your wife play in your music?
One thing I can tell you is that she has offered me a peace of mind. My wife is really helpful to me. Nice conversations, jokes and many other pleasantries can make life nice.
What's your favorite colour?
Blue and white – these two colours are very close to my heart. The blue has to do with my spiritual marabout Sheikh Ibra Fall and the white represents peace.
Who is your favourite musician?
My father, he inspired me a lot. The knowledge, the wisdom and every thing in me is from him. I am still learning from him.
What do you have to tell your fans?
Let them expect new things from me always.
Thank you for granting us this interview. Thanks.
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