Phaduba Kéita is a renowned Guinean rapper who has established himself as one of the leading bearers of hip-hop in his native country. A true pioneer of the Guinea rap scene, this artist with a unique flow and striking lyrics has conquered the hearts of local melomans thanks to his unique style skillfully combining powerful rimes, traditional melodies and social engagement.
Twice named the "Best Rapper" of Guinea, Phaduba has illustrated itself through prestigious collaborations and tours around the world, from the legendary Bataclan scene in Paris to the largest halls in Conakry. Incarnating the hope for a new generation proud of his roots, this rapper has infused a wind of modernity to Guinean hip-hop, making him a true cultural icon respected well beyond the borders of his country.
Introduction
In the musical landscape of Guinea, a name shines from a thousand lights: Phaduba. A true phenomenon in the world of hip-hop, this rapper has managed to impose himself as one of the flagship carriers of the rap scene of his home country. With its unique flow, striking lyrics and unwavering commitment, Phaduba has conquered the hearts of Guinean melomans and raised local rap far beyond borders.
Early life and Education
Born in Conakry, the capital of Guinea, Phaduba, whose real name was "Phaduba Kéita", grew up in the traditional rhythms of his country. From an early age, music flowed into his veins, infusing in him a passion for the art of rhyme and beat. His name, which means "father's blessing" in the Maninka language, sounds like a premonition of his musical destiny.
After studying accounting and management at Koffi Annan University in Guinea, Phaduba decided to embrace his true vocation: rap.
Carrier start
It was in 1993 that Phaduba made his first steps into the hip-hop world by joining the dance group "Les Criminels du Bloc 4" (CB4). A year later, in 1994, the young dancer and his team won the first hip-hop dance battle between the schools of Conakry.
In 1995, Phaduba joined the MAS (Les Meilleurs Amis de la Société) rap band. His captivating scenic performances and unique style then begin to forge, announcing the eruption of a promising talent.
Successes
In 2003, Phaduba experienced a major turning point in his career. MAS released their only album, and the rapper was awarded "Best Rapper 2003" at the K7 d'Or, a prestigious award given to the best hip-hop artists of Guinea by Nfaly Kaba's Cis Communication. Critics praise his unique flow and matured texts, similar to the captivating title "Suffoquer".
From that moment on, everything is accelerating for Phaduba. Recruited on numerous stages, he multiplied successful collaborations, notably with Senegalese rapper Didier Awadi on the album "Presidents of Africa". This collaboration allowed him to perform on the mythical stage of the Bataclan in Paris in October 2007, and at the Palais des Beaux-Arts in Brussels in February 2010.
Returning to the birthplace, Phaduba confirmed his status by once again winning the "Best Rapper" award of Guinea in 2010. His concert event of December 5, 2010 at the Centre Culturel Franco-Guinéen de Conakry will remain engraved in the memories.
Discography
Albums
- 2002 : Single album of the group MAS
- 2010 : "A Quand l'Aubaine ?" (first solo album, 16 tracks)
Singles
- "Le Voyageur" (on illegal immigration)
- "Ma Thématique" (On the camp Boiro)
- "Couleurs d'Ebènes"
- "Guinée Unie"
- 2017 : "Mami Wata Rmx" (feat. Youssou N'Dour)
Collaborations
- 2007 : Featuring on the album "Présidents d'Afrique" with Didier Awadi
- 2018 : Founding the group "Ultimatum" with Sagnolik
Tours
Phaduba has toured stages across the world, performing notably:
- In Bataclan (Paris, France) in octobre 2007
- In Palais des Beaux-Arts (Bruxelles, Belgique) in février 2010
- In Centre Culturel Franco-Guinéen (Conakry, Guinée) in décembre 2010
Journalist
After conquering the world of music, Phaduba took a new course in journalism. In 2023, he joined Djoma FM, bringing his talented pen and his clever look at Guinea's cultural news.
Conclusion
With her exemplary career, Phaduba has established herself as an indispensable figure in Guinean rap. His unique style, social commitment and love for traditional rhythms make him an accomplished artist, able to touch the hearts of his fans through profound and melodic lyrics.
Whether on stage, in the studio or behind a journalist’s microphone, Phaduba continues to embody the hope of a Guinean youth proud of its roots and eager to express itself through the power of the verb. His name will long resonate like that of a pioneer who lifted Guinean rap to the top of his glory.
