MIX PREMIER
Emile Sofonnou, known by his stage name MIX PREMIER or the panther of pantaranaCuistar, is a singer, songwriter, vocalist, designer, and specialist in coupé-décalé music.
Born Emile Joël Sofonnou on September 19, 1985, in Cotonou, Mix Premier, also known as DJ Mix, is much more than just an Ivorian singer and singer-songwriter. He is a true rising icon of Coupé-Décalé, an artist whose music embodies the cultural richness and vitality of West Africa.
Coming from a powerful cultural mix, with a Beninese father and an Ivorian mother, Mix Premier grew up in an environment where musical influences and traditions blended harmoniously. In 1992, his family moved to Port-Bouët, a working-class neighborhood of Abidjan, where he took his first steps at Sainte Anne Primary School. He left the family nest at an early age to fully embrace his passion: music.
It was in the bustling streets of Port-Bouët that he met DJ Sat, a mentor who opened the doors to the local maquis, those iconic places where music and dance intertwine. Under his wing, Mix Premier honed his craft, learned the subtleties of mixing, and discovered the unique energy of Coupé-Décalé.
In 2007, he caused a sensation with the release of his first album, Bobaraba, in collaboration with his partner Elloh DJ. This project marked a turning point: the eponymous track fervently celebrates the natural beauty of African women, a vibrant, danceable anthem that quickly won over audiences. “Bobaraba” is not just a title, it is a concept, an ode to femininity enhanced by captivating rhythms and rhythmic manipulations called “Atalaku,” a signature of the genre, where Mix Premier excels by mischievously mentioning the names of his fans, thus creating a unique connection with his audience.
Building on this success, he followed up with the track “Le téléphone a sonné,” a hit that became a staple in the Coupé-Décalé scene, reinforcing his notoriety and influence. His ability to blend rhythmic innovation and cultural authenticity has made him a respected and sought-after artist.
After this promising duo, Mix Premier established himself as a solo artist with the album “La Haut,” where he explored new sounds while remaining true to his roots. This opus demonstrates his artistic maturity and his ambition to take Ivorian music beyond borders.
Mix Premier is now an iconic figure, a passionate artist whose music is an invitation to celebrate life and African identity. His career, marked by determination and creativity, inspires a new generation of artists and music lovers across the continent.
