Billy OBAM

Musician / Band (Basic)
Artist / Band Name: Billy OBAM
Influences: James Brown, Marvin Gaye, Ray Charles, Otis Redding, Serge Gainsbourg
Genre: Pop
Albums: My Life
Avenue Raphael
Country of Origin: France
Current Location: Paris, France
Record Label: ind.

Biography: Born in Cameroon in 1967 to a diplomat Minister mother and father, Billy Obam was probably destined to pursue a... (more)Born in Cameroon in 1967 to a diplomat Minister mother and father, Billy Obam was probably destined to pursue a career in international diplomacy.

At home we listen soul music: James Brown, Marvin Gaye, Ray Charles, Otis Redding. From an early age, «little Billy » attracted attention at school by his talent for the show. When the Obam's family came in France, Billy was 7 years old and already has a dedicated passion for James Brown, whom he identified him heart and soul.

From 1983 it's the dance which allows him to perform his first performances in clubs, where he gradually revealed a talent for interpretation sung in the tradition of artists who have always inspired.

In 1987, Philippe Le Richomme, Serge Gainsbourg's producer is looking for an artist to interpret sung and danced the duo "You're under arrest", originally recorded with King Curtis in New York. The performance of Billy is accepted. Rue de Verneuil at the Serge Gainsbourg's home, the meeting is decisive and is the starting point of an unbreakable friendship that goes beyond their professional collaboration.

1988 marked a turning point in his career: dancing and singing "You're under arrest" a duo with Serge Gainsbourg makes it unforgettable moments and it provides a wonderful opportunity. Seen alongside Gainsbourg on all TV shows. Consequently, many doors opened. He met Jack Trudeau (producer Blues Troittoir) and his first single, "I can not get it outta my mind" is released with Vogue in 1990. This is the beginning of his collaborations with different composers: Billy wrote the texts of his songs and create melodies. He opens out in the register of Soul Music, with a remarkable sensitivity, up to the artists who so inspired.

In 1991, he made his first scene at Zenith with Vanessa Paradis and other artists in the concert "Sous le soleil du Zenith" organized by TF1 (first french TV channel).

In 1992, "Keep On Dancing" is signed with Trema. His Family's roots lead regularly to United States where he attended the studio and met various musical people.

In 1994, the single "Do It Good" composed by Dany Brown was released by Carrère and a compilation "Best Of Dance Music." The shows succeed in France, Germany, Belgium and Luxembourg. He also took some time devoted to his family again, both in France and the United States.

At the end of 2005, Billy made his first solo album titled "My Life". This album has a strong connotation Soul Music: James Brown, Marvin Gaye, Babyface. Eddy Bajic musical composition, Claude Azeb, texts and melodies written by Billy Obam.

In 2009, Billy Obam, who loves France and has resided there for nearly twenty years, has decided to sing in French. The result: the very next release of the album « Raphael Avenue » produced by himself. The single " J'aime la vie", sounding like a hymn to life, will be the first single from this album.

2010: Official release of his new album at a special concert at « L'européen », « L'Olympia » and « L'Alhambra ». (less)