Hamaji Magazine went to meet for its readers the musician and artist GUS. Open-hearted interview…
I’m 26 years old. I was born in Paris. I have two brothers and two sisters. Music has been a part of my life since childhood. Travelling as well, in Europe or elsewhere: Tunisia, Peru, Philippines, India, Thailand, Madagascar, Ghana, DRC…
I believe that music, whether you are a performer or a spectator, is a means of transport. It helps us to travel through time, memories and dreams. After 7 years of piano, I taught myself to play guitar. I first learned Redemption Song (Bob Marley) and then With or Without You (U2)…. Then I started composing.
Today I am happy because I decided to live my passion. Indeed, after 5 years of university and my law degree in hand, I did an internship in business development in Africa. And, unexpectedly, it is in Lubumbashi that I found the confidence and support to go my own way. Hopefully, I will be able to come back soon for a big concert at the TP Mazembe stadium! It is the strength and grandeur of the journey: the encounter. The stranger sees us as we are. Unequivocally, without mask and without any judgment. He looks at us objectively, without prejudice. Encounters with others make it possible to know oneself better. I owe a lot to the people of Lubumbashi and I hope one day I will be able to give back everything they have generously granted me!
When on vacation where do you spend most of your time: in the city, on the beach or out and about exploring nature?
I am lucky to live in Paris, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. So it is only natural that I am looking for a change of environment when on holidays! In winter I prefer nature, especially the mountains, and in summer, the beach. But I also like to discover big cities with intoxicating atmospheres: Rome, Naples, London, Bangalore, Cuzco or Beirut.
A 3 words definition of a journey
Freedom, the unknown, choice.
What is your dream destination?
Anywhere with the woman I love.
What is your favourite place in the world?
The hammock of my garden in Provence (south east of France).
A hotel
Hotel Salamangka on an island in the southern Philippines.
Your favourite restaurant in the world?
Without hesitation, the “canteen Caslou” in Paris, near the Parc Monceau!
On an island what would you take with you?
A boat.
A journey back in time…
I wouldn’t like that. Meeting with people I’ve lost, anytime! But going back, no thanks.
Your last trip
Snowshoe trekking in the Alps on the French-Italian border near Santa Anna di Vinadio.
Your next trip
Maybe Abidjan! A friend has settled there for a few years and I want to discover the Ivory Coast!
What would you ask if the answer was “yes”?
Oh, well, I’ll ask,”Would you like to go with me?”
Thank you Hamaji for inviting me to do this interview! Your team supported me from my early beginnings and I will never forget it! Long live your work and see you soon!
