Accepte-toi et danse avec l’univers
Nda Chi , the artist who links worlds
Only God , Only music
Nda Chi, whose real name is Armand Noel Ntoungchi Kamtchoua, is an artistic phenomenon who transcends borders and norms, shining through with his versatility, innovation and commitment. As a singer, songwriter, dancer, choreographer, instrumentalist and photo model, he masters every aspect of his art, delivering unique, energetic, authentic and captivating performances. His artist name, meaning "only God", reflects his gratitude for the gift of music, which he feels he has received divinely.
Born on 23 December in Baleng, in the west of Cameroon, Nda Chi comes from a line of "Kam" (Grassfield notables) and queens. He was initiated at an early age into the Nelong'o secret society, where he learned the traditional rhythms and instruments of his people. He went on to study law, political science and performing arts, with an option in musicology and choreography (he is more interested in ethnomusicology). He has thus acquired a solid general and musical culture, which has enabled him to create his own musical style, which he calls LESSA Groove.
"LESSA is the rhythm of my village, which is very lively and festive. I mix it with modern sounds, like funk, rock, pop, gospel choirs, and ad-libs that come to me from the spirit world where I feel connected. I sing in several languages, including NEGHAPELONG, MVUH, French and English. I want to showcase the richness of my culture, while being open to influences from all over the world."
His musical career began in 2018 with the song "Dis Moi", which was well received by the critics. In 2019, he won the national song contest "Mützig Star", making a name for himself among the general public. He then released his debut album "Ngi Ngun" (Voice of the Peoples), winning Best Album at the Visartculture Ouest Awards. His EP "Mengwi" (Woman) paid tribute to women and criticised patriarchal society. He also won the gold medal in the song category at the XI Jeux de la Francophonie, becoming the first Cameroonian to achieve this distinction. He continues to perform despite the obstacles, doubts and criticism, proud to represent his country and his continent on the international stage.
During a traditional ceremony, Nda Chi shared a memorable emotional experience: "Singing an ancestral lament from my village, I felt a deep connection with my roots. This moment reinforced my passion for preserving and sharing the richness of my culture through my music. The vibrations of this melody transcended time, creating a unique spiritual experience."
As well as music, Nda Chi is passionate about dance. He has performed in various companies and was the choreographer of Ayissi Le Duc's troupe "Otitié, étoile du Cameroun". With his partner Ariane Domguia, alias Mimi, he created the dance group "Modern Afro Soul". They share an exceptional complicity, creating choreographies appreciated by renowned artists. Nda Chi is also a photo model, presenting himself as an ORné artist, adorned with gold, a symbol of wealth, power and beauty. He says: "My image reflects my personality, my vision, my message. I want to be an example for young people, to show them that they can be proud of their identity, their culture and their history. I want to be an ambassador for African beauty."
Nda Chi is a complete artist who plays with codes, shakes up conventions and defies taboos. A hard worker, he wants to bring powerful messages to the world stage. He is the guardian of traditions, the ethnomusician, the "Men Shì". He is Nda Chi, only God.
"Music is my raison d'être, my way of communicating with the world, of sharing my emotions, my convictions and my dreams. I want to build bridges between cultures, generations and genres. I want to inspire people, fill them with wonder, make them dance, make them think. I want to be a mediator between the spiritual, the divine and the human. - Nda Chi