Ireke (France)

Ireke is the collaboration between multi-instrumentalists Julien Gervaix and Damien Tesson, whose shared love of Afro-Latin rhythms, jazz, funk, dub and French chanson has led to a uniquely hybrid sound. Drawing from a wide range of influences—including Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti, highlife, reggae, and vintage tropical grooves—the duo takes its name from the Yoruba word for sugar cane. Their album Tropikadelic, released by Underdog Records in 2023, brings together musicians from across the Francophone world. With roots in collective improvisation and years spent in West African, Caribbean and French music circles, Ireke approaches groove as both a cultural bridge and a communal practice.

Featured Song:

“Oh Ma Chérie – Petit à petit Part 2” (Oh My Dear– Little by Little Part 2) features French vocalist Agnès Hélène and Cameroonian singer Charly Sanga. The song blends retro French pop with tropical rhythms and warm, jazzy energy. The lyrics celebrate reunion, connection, and the joy of dancing together: “How good it feels to dance together / In your arms everything begins again / I savor this moment in life / It’s even better than a dream.”

Artist Website

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