The Artist

Cousin Brown: the Bwiti Soul at the Service of a Unique Musical Identity

Cousin Brown is an international artist living in the United States. He has just released his new album, Bwiti Soul. Having moved to France at the age of seven, Cousin Brown, whose full name is Cousin Ogandaga Fonclaud, was born in Port-Gentil, in the Ogooué-Maritime province, to a Gabonese mother and a Martiniquais father.

His musical journey began at Joséphine Baker School, founded by Bernard Lavilliers, where he took his first steps as a songwriter, composer, and performer. Early on, he was deeply influenced by the music and legend of James Brown, which led him to participate in various competitions imitating the American icon’s performances. His striking resemblance earned him the nickname “Mister Brown.”

In 1985, at a youth talent audition organized by the MJC of Créteil, Cousin Brown, somewhat surprised, won first place. The director of the center then offered him a series of concerts. Soon after, with friends, he formed a band: Cousin Brown and the Blanc-Becs. He quickly established himself as a true stage powerhouse, performing in numerous MJC venues around Paris.

Bwiti at the Heart of a New Musical Identity

Cousin Brown quickly made a name for himself in the music scene with a voice that blends the deep vibrations of Bwiti — a spiritual practice incorporating Gabonese sacred dance – with the smooth harmonies of American Soul. This fusion gave birth to Cousin Brown’s Bwiti Soul.

The style grew as he began composing his own songs and invited audiences to discover his new band, Cousin Brown and the Soul’s Dynamite, in 1990: nine musicians and two backup singers. This rare and daring blend captivated fans seeking authenticity and fresh sonic experiences.

A Rich and Diverse Performance History

• Opening act during Claude Nougaro’s tour, by invitation from the legendary artist.
• Concert at the Palace Club in Paris for an event honoring James Brown, alongside MC Solaar, Cousin Brown, the group Carte Noire, and others.
• Opening act for Maxime Le Forestier on a live tour — an unforgettable experience.
• African tour: Benin and Côte d’Ivoire, promoting the album Soul de Toi.
• Concert at Kibitz in Los Angeles in 2022, organized by the French community association of Los Angeles.

Always true to his originality, Cousin Brown shares his love of music. He expresses with emotion:

“ Bwiti Soul is 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. A
highly anticipated comeback, as fans are eager to experience live the artistry of a musician who has
elevated Bwiti to the level of an international musical expression.