Album Review: I’m Proud To Be An African by Lover Genns
Lover Genns’ I’m Proud To Be An African is one of those albums that just sneaks up on you. Released in 1988, this Cameroonian gem blends funk, soul, and electronic vibes with a boogie twist that feels like a warm hug from the past. It’s not perfect—some tracks feel raw, almost unfinished—but maybe that’s why it sticks with you. This ain’t your polished studio magic; it’s real people making music they believed in.
The album kicks off with “Disco Dancin Music,” and oh man, does it slap. The groove hits instantly, all bouncy basslines and shimmering synths courtesy of Benson (who clearly had some serious keyboard skills). There’s something about how simple yet infectious it is—it doesn’t try too hard, but damn if it doesn’t make you wanna move. You can practically picture Lover Genns rocking out in the studio, no stress, just pure joy pouring into the track. Every time I hear it, I think, “This is what disco should’ve sounded like forever.”
Then there’s the title track, “I’m Proud To Be An African.” How do you even describe this one? It’s got this anthemic vibe, like a rallying cry wrapped in funky goodness. Uncle John, Mr. Basil, and Soulmah bring their A-game here, layering rhythms that feel alive, pulsing with pride and energy. When the chorus kicks in, it’s impossible not to feel a lump in your throat. Like, yeah, this was made in Cameroon decades ago, but it still resonates today. Being proud of who you are never goes out of style, right?
Other standouts include “Groove Me Baby” (sexy, smooth, and kinda cheeky) and “Jealousy,” which has these haunting synth lines that linger long after the song ends. But honestly, the whole thing flows so well—it’s like a mixtape made by someone who just wanted to share their world with you.
What strikes me most is how human this record feels. These guys weren’t chasing fame or trends—they were creating something honest, something rooted in where they came from. And isn’t that what music’s supposed to be about? Not perfection, but connection.
So here’s the weird part: listening to this album makes me wonder what else is out there, hidden away in forgotten corners of the globe. What other gems are sitting on dusty shelves, waiting for us to rediscover them? Maybe that’s why I’m Proud To Be An African matters—it reminds us that great art doesn’t need a spotlight to shine.
Now go listen to it… seriously. Your ears will thank you later.
