DJANTA

Born Mathieu Shilling on January, 17th 1985 in the East of France he spent 6 years in a music school (musical theory and piano) and 2 years in a church choir in his childhood. He also started to play the guitar and began to write songs in 2000.

He focused on reggae at first and now his work as a musician, song writer and performer goes on in others musical genre which includes dancehall, soul, and hip hop.

He says “As musician, and passionate about music, I can’t stay focus on one musical style. Since I’m born, I listen to all types of music and I learn a lot listening to different things. I love blues, soul, funk; salsa and hip hop… So when I create my own music I’m influenced by this eclectic musical background.”

His name Djanta comes from a trip to Benin (West Africa) in 2006. Djanta means “lion” in “Fon” the African dialect from Benin and the image of the Lion perfectly fit Djanta personality. Indeed, the Lion is quiet but when he has to defend his territory, the Lion stands strong and is ready to attack. Djanta’s territory is the stage and he is ready to attack with notes and words.

In Europe, it’s been 4 years now that Djanta is doing concerts over France, Germany and Switzerland. With sound systems, unplugged or with his band “The Fighting Roots” Djanta is always giving his public the best of himself for a powerful and energic performance whether it’s in big venues or little clubs. He also already did some shows as opener for Capleton, Gentleman, Queen Ifrica, Turbulence, Gladiators, Macka B., Lyricson or Queen Omega.

Djanta has also an amazing voice and a unique flow. He defines his vocal style as "a rebellious lament" but he also say “I can’t really explain, it’s a gift of God, you have to listen to it and you will hear… and judge by yourself.”

Now the message… Djanta sees himself first as a “conscious” artist carrying a message of love, righteousness and spirituality. But he also writes lots of beautiful love songs and has some party songs ready to make you sweat on the dance floor!

“To me music is all about educate and entertain. Life is made of different emotions and my music is an expression of my emotions. So you’ve got some songs who gonna carry a serious and deep message and others will be strictly entertainment songs. There’s no compromise or commercial strategy about it, it’s just life…”

Then in December 2007, Djanta went to Jamaica for 2 months “to check the vibes a yard” and to work on some material with his friend Dameon “DX” Gayle a young and talented Musician-Producer-Sound Engineer. They produced some songs together including the song “Peace” featuring Lutan Fyah, “Free My Mind featuring Luciano and “Slavery Nuh Done” featuring Fantan Mojah.

“Jamaica has been a great experience for me. I learned a lot being in the studio, recording, meeting some big artists, musicians and producers… I came back with more strength and more confidence in myself and my music because I have been accepted in Jamaica. That was a real challenge for me as a French artist singing in english and patois. But everybody agreed and said “Djanta you gonna buss, it’s just a question of time”. Jamaica will definitely be a part of my life and my music now. ”

Now Djanta, is looking forward to set his label DJANTA YARD, on which he will release his productions (Peace feat. Lutan Fyah, Only You, Free My Mind feat. Luciano…).

“Djanta Yard is another stone to the building. I want find a team to work with. Find some sponsors and distributors and start to release my songs on that label. I’ve got so many songs in stock and I produce a lot of instrumentals. Now I want to work with different musicians and find MY SOUND… An international sound, melting vintage instruments and modern electronic samples…”

For the year 2008 (May to October) Djanta is going to tour Europe. Live performance with his band or Sound System.... Make your choice!!!

BOOKING CONTACT

Mail : [email protected]

Tel : Europe : +(33)6 1233 0617

Jamaica +(876) 370 7756