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FOROYAA Newspaper (Serrekunda)

Gambia: Jalex on the Verge of Releasing New Album

Musa Barrow

18 October 2007

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interview

In this edition of the Art column, Foroyaa speaks to a young and rising Gambian musician, Jalex, who has been heralded by music enthusiasts as one of the brightest young talents in the country.

Jalex's thrilling lyrics and songs have jolted music lovers to be on their feet and brought them to embrace him.

Foroyaa: Before we proceed, can you tell our readers and your fans what Jalex's real name is?

Well, my real name is Malang Touray and I am from Bakau Newtown.

Have you been to school and what is your educational background?

Of course, I have been to school, but I cannot tell you the name of the schools I attended because I have been to many schools.

When did you start playing music and could you also tell us when was you first single released?

Jalex: I actually started my musical career in 1997. Between 1997 and 1999 I released my first single entitled "Africa Kairo" which means 'Peace in Africa'.

Foroyaa: Your first single which was entitled 'Peace in Africa' must have been very appealing. So why did you choose that particular title for your maiden single?

The reason why I named my first single "Africa Kairo" was because both then and now the continent of Africa is still being washed with wars and all sorts of conflicts. So, "Africa Kairo" was meant to appeal for peace, stability and tolerance. It was also aimed at raising awareness that wars and conflicts only drag the continent backwards and are never a solution to the many problems confronting our dear continent, Africa.

How was this first single "Africa Kairo" received by music enthusiasts?

My first single was well received by music lovers and it actually turned out to be an absolute thriller. Surprisingly, "Africa Kairo" proved to be the favourite song of many elderly people.

Just to take you a bit back, what actually inspired you to venture into the world of music?

Infact music has always been an inextricable part of me, because my grandfather, who died in 1951, was without any question one of the best musicians the West African Sub-Region has ever produced. He used to play local instruments known as "Kutiro" and "Sabaar". Basically, I started playing music in order to continue the legacy of my grandfather who was in his own rights a true legend.

What was the name of this legendary grandfather?

His name was Jali Fodar.

Foroyaa: In one of your songs which happened to be popular as well as controversial, you sang that you don't trust any one and you were encouraging others too not to trust any one. Can you tell us why this song?

Contrary to how some people might interpret this song, I sang it with a very clear conscience and in good faith. It was meant to address today's realities as far as the inter-relationship between peoples are concerned. The fact of the matter is that in today's world you trust people at your own peril.

Some people might speculate that the reason why you sang this song was because you had been betrayed by somebody?

Actually, this song was not triggered by any personal experience. But the fact remains that betrayal can happen to both you and me at anytime.

What would you say to critics who may argue that this song is totally inappropriate given your position as a musician who is supposed to be encouraging people to cooperate and support each other in solidarity but instead telling them not to trust?

My respond to that is who feels it knows it, because it is a message to the wider audience. It can hardly satisfy everybody.

How many albums and singles have you produced since you started your musical career?

So far, I have released one album entitled "Soma Alphal" Meaning the elders of tomorrow. In addition to that I have also released four singles.

Have you got any immediate plans to release another album very soon?

Yes, I am on the verge of releasing my next album very soon.

As a musician what is your perception of our present society?

Well, I do not want to say much about that, but I feel that as a musician it is a moral responsibility for me to sing about all forms of evil things going on in the society.

Recently many young Gambian artists have been signed on contractual basis by profit-making companies with a view to promoting their products. Have you been approached by any of such companies and if so could it not undermine your independence?

Well, I have entered into such contract agreement with the Africell Company. But let me stress that I would not under any circumstances allow my independence to be compromised. Let me also make it clear that I am a revolutionary musician who is representing the voice of the poor and the oppressed.

Revolutionary singers are often harassed and intimidated for their radical messages. Are you not scared by such threats?

I am quite aware of these threats, but they shall never fetter me from singing what I believe is right. After all, I believe in God as my protector.

Would you like to gain or achieve iconic status?

Yes, I would like to be a national icon one day. In anything one does, he/she wants to move from strength to strength.

Your music is quite distinguishable from that of many upcoming Gambian musicians. How on earth are you able to play the style of music which is considered by many to be purely Gambian?

Well, the reason why I play the style of music I play is because I have realised I am Gambian and I love being a Gambian. As you know, I'm a Gambian who is proud of my heritage. Imitating any foreign music would be an affront to my culture.

You spoke about your grandfather who you described as a legend. So are you also playing the musical instruments that your grandfather used to play?

Although I do not exactly play the instruments which my grandfather used to play, but I can also play the percussion locally called "Jembeh", which no one taught me how to play it. In addition to that, through close observation, I have an idea as to how to play a guitar.

It is understood that you have recently won an International Award. Tell us more about this award?

Yes, I have recently won the best upcoming Senegambia artist award. This competition was organised by Gambians based in United Kingdom through online voting. This award was received on my behalf in London by my Manager, Garry Jones, who is also an Englishman.

You made mention of a manager. How important is a manager to a musician ?

The role of manager in the business of music cannot be underestimated. I believe every musician who wants to excel and flourish needs to have a good manager.

In your sincere opinion, what do you think are some of the problems or obstacles faced by Gambian musicians especially the upcoming ones ?

The major obstacle facing Gambian musicians is piracy. With all the hard work invested to produce our music, we helplessly see our work being pirated by unscrupulous people

But an anti piracy law has already been established. Is the practice still not been curbed?

Yes the anti piracy law is already in existence, but as far as I know its impact has not been tremendous as we would wish it to be.

You are among the few Gambian artists who have a website. Tell us about your website and how it has contributed in bolstering your popularity?

My website is www.jalexonline.com. Clearly the website which was created by my manager has contributed immensely in raising my profit both in the country and outside.

Finally when can we expect Jalex to be on the stage and what would be your advice to anyone aspiring to become a musician?

In fact, I'll be playing at the Brikama Jokor and Semega Janneh Hall on the 19 October. My advice to aspiring musicians is for them to be patient, work hard and research well.

Thank you.

It's a pleasure.

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