FAQ

Bwiti Soul is Cousin Brown’s original musical identity. It combines the deep spiritual vibrations of Bwiti - a sacred Gabonese spiritual practice - with the smooth harmonies and groove of American soul music. It is more than music; it is a vibration and philosophy that connects cultures.

He began his musical career at the Joséphine Baker School, founded by Bernard Lavilliers, where he developed his skills as a songwriter, composer, and performer.

Cousin Brown was deeply influenced by James Brown. His strong resemblance and energetic performances inspired by the legendary artist earned him the nickname “Mister Brown” during his early career.

In 1985, he won first place at a youth talent audition organized by the MJC of Créteil. This victory led to a series of concerts and helped launch his professional music career.

He formed:

• Cousin Brown and the Blanc-Becs

• Cousin Brown and the Soul’s Dynamite (formed in 1990 with nine musicians and two backup singers)

Some of his key releases include:

• Soul de Toi (1991)

• Sex Machine (1993)

• Bwiti Soul (single, 1997)

• Iboga Power (2001)

• Bwiti Soul (Album, 2026)

Yes. He has performed across Europe, Africa, and the United States, including:

• Opening for Claude Nougaro

• Opening for Maxime Le Forestier

• African tour in Benin and Côte d’Ivoire

• Concert in Los Angeles (2022)

He describes Bwiti Soul as:

“More than a musical style. It’s a vibration, a philosophy. It’s the soul of Gabon meeting the soul of the world.”

Cousin Brown plans to return to Gabon in 2026 for a series of concerts around his new album Bwiti Soul. Fans are eagerly anticipating this major comeback.