Biography

James BKS belongs to a new generation of musicians, symbolized by the "golden wolf" of Africa. His debut album, Wolves of Africa, reflects a journey shaped by his personal and artistic quest, blending influences from France, the U.S., and his African roots. Born in France in 1982, his family's move to the U.S. introduced him to hip-hop production, which eventually led him to work with icons like Snoop Dogg, Akon, and Puff Daddy. However, disillusioned with the music industry, he returned to France and discovered his biological father was the legendary Manu Dibango. This revelation marked a new phase in his life, where he embraced his roots and collaborated with artists like Booba, Yemi Alade, and Mr Eazi.

His track Kwele (2017), built on a sample of his father's Senga Abele, marked the beginning of his album. The album blends African traditions with electronic rhythms, incorporating diverse sounds from Congo, Nigeria, Cameroon, and beyond. The second part of the album is more personal, showcasing James as a performer. His tracks Celebrate Blessings and Identity reflect his positive outlook and the complexities of building his identity across three cultures.

Featuring a star-studded guest list, including Carlos Santana, Angélique Kidjo, Royce Da 5'9, and Ibrahim Maalouf, Wolves of Africa is a collective work that celebrates heritage and modernity. James BKS's music is a symbol of pride, showing that even when a wolf disappears, its spirit lives on, creating a new breed of music.