In Conversation With ICHON
French-Cameroonian artist Ichon has become a distinctive voice in contemporary music, blending raw emotion with a refined aesthetic. Known for his introspective lyrics and captivating performances, Ichon’s work transcends genre boundaries, merging influences from hip-hop, soul, and beyond.
As a member of the Bon Gamin collective, he has continually pushed creative boundaries, crafting a sound that is both intimate and expansive. We delve into the mind of this multifaceted artist, exploring the experiences and inspirations that shape his unique artistry.
You’ve often described your music as a blend of emotions and experiences. How do your travels and cultural heritage shape your songs?
Since my first project in 2012 I have been saying: "this is life and I make songs about it". I try to transform my emotions into music in the most transparent way.
It is the meetings and discussions with those around me that make my songs. My music is the crystallization of what I live.
Fashion plays a significant role in your work. How do you see the relationship between your personal style and the music you create?
Every day I dress aligned with how I feel. To be at ease in the speech that I want to share with the world.
I know that clothes are part of the image that we convey so I like the way I am dressed to be in accordance with the music that I share. It is a whole.
For me, clothing is a way of expression as free as music or even painting or poetry.
Your work with the music collective Bon Gamin has been pivotal in your career. What are the most valuable lessons you've learned from collaborating with like-minded creatives?
Bon Gamin is what makes me who I am today. Without this group, without my friends who are part of it, I would certainly never have become an artist.
It’s alongside others that I was able to discover myself. We didn't share exactly the same ideas, but our combination stretched us and made us stronger. I learned to become myself.
You have a powerful connection with your audience. How do you create such intimate live experiences?
I see my stage performances like masses. As if this moment had to bring me closer to myself. My goal, as when I create, is to be myself as much as possible to live in the present moment. A bit like meditation.
In the end, I think more about myself than about others, maybe that's what brings us together :)
How does your personal life influence your work, especially becoming a father?
As I say, I put no barrier between Ichon and Yann, I don’t see myself as a character but simply as a human being who tells his story in song. Becoming a father has not been easy for me. You will be able to learn more in my next releases.
It's easier for me to poetize my life than to tell it head-on.
Your lyrics often delve into themes of love, identity, and self-discovery. How has your perspective on these themes evolved with your growth as an artist?
My perspective has completely changed, I think. As an artist I have encountered numerous phases of evolution which have and continue to evolve. It is as a black man that I sing and even just this theme has taken on a new meaning in my life with the world itself and its evolution.
My vision also evolves with my age which also advances and that of the youngest who are starting out, to whom we compare ourselves and to the oldest etc. My identity is always evolving, like the world. I think each of my songs will have something to describe the world as I see it at a specific moment but will change with my next song.
It’s life and I make songs about it.
You've mentioned authenticity as a key component of your work. What practices do you employ to stay true to yourself?
I often find myself not being true to myself.
Being exposed and empathetic, surrounded by many people, I tend to get lost in wanting to please others or even my audience.
To remain true to myself, I isolate myself a lot. I left Paris to live in the countryside in central France. I play a lot of sport to release my energy and also to continue learning new things. Be curious.
Looking forward, what new territories—whether emotional, geographical, or artistic—are you eager to explore in your upcoming projects?
I hope to start a career in the sport I practice.
I hope to spend more time in Africa.
I hope to launch an acting career.
I hope to continue to be successful with my songs
I hope to help people realize their own potential.
I hope to continue to be inspired further.
