Free download

    Oh que le temps passe

    Oh que le temps passe: The Legacy of Gnonnas Pedro


    Oh que le temps passe: The Legacy of Gnonnas Pedro

    Gnonnas Pedro was a legendary singer, songwriter and musician from Benin, who was known for his fusion of African rhythms with salsa, funk and soul. He was one of the founding members of the Afro-Latin supergroup Africando, and also had a successful solo career that spanned over four decades.

    One of his most popular songs is “Oh que le temps passe”, which means “Oh how time flies” in French. The song is a nostalgic reflection on the passage of time and the changes that it brings. It is also a tribute to his homeland and its culture, which he sings with pride and affection.

    The song was released in 1998 as part of his album “Agbadja”, which was produced by David Monsoh and Baïlo Sylla. The album features a mix of traditional Beninese music styles such as agbadja, tchinkoumé and sakpata, with modern influences such as salsa, zouk and reggae. The song showcases Pedro’s versatile voice and his ability to blend different genres seamlessly.

    “Oh que le temps passe” is a timeless classic that celebrates the beauty and diversity of African music and culture. It is also a reminder of the importance of cherishing our memories and our roots, as time goes by.

    Gnonnas Pedro was born in 1943 in Lokossa, a town in southern Benin. He started his musical career in the 1960s, playing guitar and saxophone in various bands. He also composed songs in different languages and styles, reflecting his diverse influences and interests. He was inspired by Cuban music, which he heard on the radio, as well as by local traditions such as agbadja and tchinkoumé.

    In 1970, he formed his own band, Pedro y sus Panchos, which later became Gnonnas Pedro and his Dadjes Band. The band was known for its energetic performances and its fusion of Afro-Cuban rhythms with highlife, funk and soul. They toured extensively in West Africa and Europe, and recorded several albums that showcased Pedro’s talent as a singer and songwriter.

    In 1994, Pedro joined the Afro-Latin supergroup Africando, which featured some of the best singers and musicians from Africa and Latin America. He became the lead singer of the group, replacing the late Pape Seck. He brought his unique style and charisma to the group, and contributed some of his own songs, such as “Yaye Boy”, “Dacefo” and “Miye Na We”. He also sang some of the classic songs of Africando, such as “Betece”, “Aicha” and “Sey”.

    With Africando, Pedro gained international recognition and acclaim. He performed at prestigious venues and festivals around the world, such as the Montreux Jazz Festival, the Lincoln Center and the Barbican Centre. He also collaborated with other artists, such as Youssou N’Dour, Salif Keita and Cheikh Lo.

    Unfortunately, Gnonnas Pedro’s brilliant career was cut short by a fatal illness. He was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2003, and underwent several surgeries in France. However, none of them were successful, and he decided to return to his homeland to spend his last days. He died on August 12, 2004, at the age of 61, in a hospital in Cotonou. He left behind a legacy of music that touched millions of people around the world.

    Gnonnas Pedro was mourned by his fans, friends and fellow artists. He was praised for his contribution to African music and culture, and for his role as an ambassador of Afro-Latin fusion. He was also remembered for his charisma, his generosity and his passion for life. His songs continue to inspire and entertain new generations of listeners, who discover his voice and his message through his recordings and performances.

    Hi, I’m Adam Smith

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *