X Maleya formed in Douala, Cameroon in 1996, originally calling themselves Les Jeunes du Littoral. Roger Samnick started the group with his friend Grace Decca, playing local shows around the city. Their sound took off in 2001 with the single 'Tchokolo,' which became a hit in Cameroon and helped build their following.
Their music mixes Cameroonian rhythms with R&B, funk, and reggae touches. They've put out albums like 'Les Rois du Makossa' in 2003 and 'African Woman' in 2015. The band has worked with other African artists, including Congolese singer Fally Ipupa on the track 'Le Bonheur.'
X Maleya's lineup has shifted over time, with Samnick remaining at the center. They're known for energetic performances that draw from their early days playing around Douala.
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